Solidarity with Belgian workers on their day of action and with all European workers facing the energy and cost of living crises - Press Release

The Workers' Group of the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) again expresses its solidarity to Belgian workers taking part in the general strike or other forms of action on 9 November to defend their purchasing power and demand further government action to address the energy and cost of living crises.

While profits have continued to rise in the past year, wages have effectively been blocked. As energy and food bills are soaring and becoming unpayable for some, the Belgian trade unions are demanding a reform of the 1996 wage standards law to allow trade unions to freely collectively bargain for a real wage increase in 2023-2024.

Escalating energy prices mean that many families will struggle to heat their homes this winter. Although the Belgian government has taken some measures to support households faced with the cost-of-living crisis, the trade unions want action to address the root of the problem and are also calling for a cap on energy prices.

Workers' Group President Oliver Röpke said: "Workers across Europe are facing the same concerns: how to put food on the table and keep warm this winter. Member States must take action to support workers, companies and the most vulnerable people. The European Union must also play its part: we need the same level of unity and solidarity that got us through the COVID-19 pandemic. The EU should agree a cap on energy prices and excessive profits, as well as a common financial instrument to address the economic and social fallout from the energy and cost of living crises".