Thousands of workers descended on Brussels on Monday, causing disruptions near the European Parliament as they set off firecrackers and blocked streets in a large-scale demonstration.
The protest was organized to show solidarity with employees at an Audi factory in Brussels facing potential job cuts as part of the shift toward greener technologies.
More than 5,000 protesters from Belgium and neighboring countries joined the march, voicing concerns over the threat of job losses and the pressure cheaper foreign competitors, particularly from China, are placing on Europe’s industries.
Audi workers fear losing 3,000 jobs
The rally, led by trade unions, began at Brussels’ North train station and moved towards the European Parliament.
Protesters carried placards supporting the Audi workers and demanded an end to the “dumping” of industrial products by Chinese manufacturers.
With public transport disrupted due to a national strike, the demonstration highlighted growing fears that key European industries may not survive the transition to greener technologies.
Audi’s factory in Forest, a suburb of Brussels, employs 3,000 workers, 90% of whom could lose their jobs within the next year, despite the plant’s focus on manufacturing electric vehicles (EVs).
Audi factory closure: EU policies under scrutiny
Union leaders argue that even facilities focused on green manufacturing, such as Audi’s EV plant, are at risk. Protesters, enveloped in green and pink smoke from the trade unions, expressed frustration over the lack of support from both the Belgian government and the European Union (EU).
As tensions rose, police stationed water cannons nearby, anticipating potential escalations.
Many workers, including the families of long-time employees, took to the streets, demanding stronger action to protect jobs.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has pledged to introduce a “Clean Industrial Act” within the first 100 days of her new term.
This policy aims to assist high-emission sectors in transitioning to greener practices while keeping production within Europe.
However, the specifics of financial support tied to the policy remain unclear, raising concerns among European workers and businesses alike.
Alongside domestic policy changes, the EU is also considering tariffs on Chinese-made EVs.
A recent investigation revealed that these vehicles benefit from significant state subsidies, leading to oversupply in the European market.
Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis is scheduled to meet with China’s Commerce Minister Wang Wentao to discuss the investigation’s findings, with an important vote by EU member states on the proposed tariffs slated for September 25.
Preserve Europe’s competitive edge
As Europe grapples with maintaining competitiveness, there have been increasing calls for substantial investment.
Former European Central Bank President Mario Draghi recently suggested that the EU allocate up to €800 billion to address the “existential challenge” of falling behind global rivals.
Draghi warned that without such action, Europe’s economy could face a “slow agony.”
European business groups have also urged the EU to cut red tape and reduce energy costs to help industries stay competitive.
The automotive sector, led by companies like Volkswagen AG, is considering requesting a two-year delay in meeting the 2025 emissions targets, as the company faces significant challenges in reaching those goals.
Audi workers’ protests are part of a wider wave of unrest in Brussels. Recent months have seen farmers block the city with tractors in response to rising costs and strict environmental regulations.
In response, von der Leyen has shelved some of the regulations and initiated “strategic dialogues” with affected sectors.
Balancing her green agenda with support for key industries will be one of the Commission’s most significant challenges in the coming years.
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