A large-scale demonstration against planned changes in the French-speaking education system in Belgium escalated on Thursday into violent clashes between protesters and police in central Brussels.

Thousands of students and teachers gathered in the Belgian capital to protest against a reform package put forward by the government of the French-speaking community. Ahead of the protest, unions had called on teachers to participate in a strike, which contributed to the high turnout.

During the day, demonstrators gathered near parliament, where politicians were simultaneously discussing the proposed measures. The situation worsened later when parts of the crowd moved towards Brussels Central Station.

Bicycles and barricades were among the things set on fire. Fireworks and firecrackers were set off as riot police tried to restore order. According to video clips circulating from the scene, a substantial portion of the most active rioters appear to have an immigrant background.

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The area was cordoned off, with several police vehicles and emergency services dispatched to the scene. A helicopter monitored the situation from above.

In the afternoon, police carried out operations against groups of demonstrators still present in the area. According to Belgian media, both tear gas and water cannons were used to disperse the crowd.

Raising University Fees

The background to the demonstrations is the government’s plans to raise university fees for the majority of students from 835 euros, about 9,100 kronor, to 1,194 euros, approximately 13,000 kronor per year. The increase, about 35 percent, is justified by the government’s need to reduce the budget deficit.

In addition, the package includes proposals for teachers instructing the highest grade levels to work two extra hours a week without additional compensation. The rules on permanent contracts and job security are also proposed to be changed.

The government defends the reforms by saying that they will free up resources that can later be reinvested in the education sector. Critics, however, argue that the measures risk worsening both working conditions and teaching quality.

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Polish MEP Dominik Tarczyński has shared video clips from the riots in Brussels, the city where the European Parliament is located. In his comments on the video, he states that ‘this is Europe today’ and argues that the developments show the need for increased remigration in Europe.