Public-transport operator STIB-MIVB announced on 10 November that metro, tram and bus services across Brussels will be ‘significantly reduced’ during a three-day general strike scheduled for 24–26 November.
The strike—organised by multiple trade unions protesting pension reforms—could also hit regional rail and airport-ground operations, compounding recent drone-related uncertainty. While the company hopes to keep a skeletal network running, it urged commuters and travellers to seek alternative modes, including bike-share, taxis and car-sharing apps.
![Brussels Warns of Severe Transport Disruption During 24-26 November Strike]()
For global-mobility managers the timing is awkward: the walk-out begins on a Sunday, overlapping with corporate expatriate rotations and Black-Friday cargo peaks. Companies should alert staff to expect longer airport transfers, pre-book taxis, and consider remote work or temporary accommodation near offices.
Historically, Belgian strikes have reduced STIB service levels to as low as 20 % of normal capacity and triggered airline schedule thinning at Brussels Airport. HR teams should review force-majeure clauses in travel policies and update contact lists for those on assignment in Belgium during the affected period.
Union leaders say the strike may be called off if the government withdraws plans to raise the retirement age, but negotiations remain stalled. Employers should therefore prepare for full disruption and monitor STIB updates daily.
The strike—organised by multiple trade unions protesting pension reforms—could also hit regional rail and airport-ground operations, compounding recent drone-related uncertainty. While the company hopes to keep a skeletal network running, it urged commuters and travellers to seek alternative modes, including bike-share, taxis and car-sharing apps.
For global-mobility managers the timing is awkward: the walk-out begins on a Sunday, overlapping with corporate expatriate rotations and Black-Friday cargo peaks. Companies should alert staff to expect longer airport transfers, pre-book taxis, and consider remote work or temporary accommodation near offices.
Historically, Belgian strikes have reduced STIB service levels to as low as 20 % of normal capacity and triggered airline schedule thinning at Brussels Airport. HR teams should review force-majeure clauses in travel policies and update contact lists for those on assignment in Belgium during the affected period.
Union leaders say the strike may be called off if the government withdraws plans to raise the retirement age, but negotiations remain stalled. Employers should therefore prepare for full disruption and monitor STIB updates daily.
