Ghent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – In Ghent, around 200 residents, unions ACV and COD, and opposition parties protested €120 million budget cuts, risking 400 jobs; Mathilde De Cooman led calls for transparency and fairer measures.
As VRT News reported, in Ghent, growing concern over the city’s austerity program has led approximately 200 residents to demand explanations from the municipal council regarding planned annual budget cuts of €120 million. Officials warn that these reductions could result in at least 400 job losses.
On Sep 2, 2025, just before 6:00 PM, a diverse crowd gathered beneath Ghent’s City Hall. Union activists organised by ACV and COD were highly visible, while opposition party members arrived. Cultural and social groups also joined the demonstration.
Why are 200 residents, ACV & COD protesting Ghent’s €120M cuts?
In early July 2025, the council issued more information about their restructuring plans and the expected job losses and there were spontaneous protests in the weeks leading up to the Ghent Festivities. There were quieter months in the city over the summer, but opponents of the cuts decided the academic year reopening was the time to renew their public challenge.
Ghent’s unions were very frustrated with the planned austerity efforts from the City. Last week, they met informally with City officials but did not receive a clear response. The City has asserted to provide better transparency in future Council sessions.
Union leaders said politicians must work to create a city that serves all residents. They added that civil society groups, which have direct experience on the ground, are not being included in decisions.
“We have the knowledge and experience to make a real difference,”
union representatives said. City communications indicate that not all decisions are final, and further discussions are expected.
“We believe the city needs to redo its budget cuts,”
says Mathilde De Cooman.
“We’re very concerned about the existing plans. We’re not satisfied; all the burden falls on the shoulders of ordinary Ghent residents. We want those who bear the brunt of the burden to bear more.”
During the same council meeting, opposition party PVDA also called for a review of the austerity measures. Experts say it is unlikely the measures will be repealed. Still, opponents announced plans to take action at future council meetings..
“We’ll be back and we’ll make a lot of noise,”
De Cooman concluded.
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