Author: OMN AI

Belgian police searched properties connected to relatives and associates of Democratic Republic of Congo President Félix Tshisekedi on Thursday, October 15, as part of a money-laundering investigation. Reuters reported that the searches took place in Brussels and surrounding areas. The investigation is linked to allegations that money from misappropriated mining revenues was laundered through Belgium, although the authorities did not identify the people whose properties were searched. The case began after a group of non-governmental organisations from Congo’s Katanga region filed a complaint in Belgium in 2025. Their legal representatives alleged that funds connected to the country’s mining sector had…

European Union leaders gathered in Brussels on Thursday, October 15, for a summit dominated by high energy prices, trade tensions with China and disagreements over the bloc’s future budget. Reuters reported that the meeting brought together leaders from the EU’s 27 member states at a time of economic anxiety, with governments facing pressure from households, businesses and international security developments. Energy costs have risen sharply amid conflict in the Middle East, placing additional pressure on families and companies. Higher fuel and electricity prices can increase the cost of transport, manufacturing and heating. Governments are under pressure to provide relief, but…

Belgian supermarket chain Delhaize continued relying on an alternative supply process on Wednesday, October 14, after a cybersecurity incident disrupted the internal systems of its parent company, Ahold Delhaize. The Brussels Times reported that the disruption had entered its third day, leaving the retailer unable to use its normal internal supply system even as stores continued serving customers. The incident began on Sunday afternoon, according to the report. The company had not publicly explained every detail of what happened, and the full extent of the disruption remained unclear. Delhaize instead used an alternative process to organise deliveries, relying on order…

Greenpeace activists staged a protest near the European Parliament in Brussels on Wednesday, October 14, calling on European leaders to reduce the continent’s dependence on gas. The demonstration took place ahead of a European Council summit scheduled for Thursday and Friday, where leaders are expected to discuss competitiveness, energy prices and the long-term direction of Europe’s energy policy. The action took place around Place du Luxembourg in Ixelles, near the European Parliament. The Brussels Times reported that about ten activists were detained during a peaceful demonstration involving Greenpeace and Extinction Rebellion. At the same time, several climbers positioned themselves near…

Belgium’s public sector faced disruption as unions continued opposing planned government budget cuts, putting additional pressure on Prime Minister Bart De Wever and his administration. A Reuters report published on October 12, 2026, described a second day of nationwide strike action as negotiations over a budget agreement remained stalled. The dispute has become an important political test for the government as it tries to balance public spending with demands for financial stability. Unions have argued that the proposed savings could place an unfair burden on workers and people who depend on public services. Their opposition reflects broader concerns about the…

Belgian police arrested ten people, including nine minors, following clashes near Brussels-Midi railway station on Monday, October 12. The incident was reported by Euronews in an update published on October 13, 2026. The unrest took place alongside a national strike and a gathering involving young people, adding to tensions around education policy, government spending and the cost of living. Hundreds of young people were reportedly present as the situation escalated near the station and surrounding streets. Police said officers were targeted with stones and fireworks. Authorities used tear gas and water cannon as groups moved through areas around Place Bara…

Residents in Brussels are facing disruptions to some municipal services on Monday, 12 October, because of national trade union action. The City of Brussels has warned that counters at the Brucity Administrative Centre and liaison offices may experience interruptions. The action could affect residents who need to complete paperwork, arrange appointments or access services in person. Officials have directed people toward online services where possible to reduce the need for visits during the disruption. Public transport is also expected to be affected, with the city’s notice warning of possible disruption to metro, tram and bus services. Such changes can create…

Thousands of people gathered in Brussels on 9 October to protest against rising living costs and government measures intended to reduce public spending. Trade union members, workers and students joined the demonstration as Belgium faced difficult decisions over its finances. The rally reflected concerns that budget reductions could place greater pressure on families already struggling with transport, education and other daily expenses. Organisers said the demonstration attracted a large crowd, while police reported that the main march remained separate from the group involved in violent clashes. The demonstration was largely peaceful until masked individuals confronted police near Brussels Central railway…

Brussels witnessed a major protest against government budget cuts as workers, students and trade union members gathered in the Belgian capital. The demonstration reflected growing concern about living costs, public services and changes to social support. Many participants argued that ordinary people should not carry the main burden of efforts to reduce public spending. The protest also showed how economic decisions can bring together groups with different needs but similar worries about their future. The main march included thousands of people who opposed planned changes to public spending. Teachers, students and workers joined the action, while some demonstrators raised concerns…

Climate campaigners are gathering in Brussels on Sunday, 11 October, to call for stronger action against climate change and to urge political leaders to protect people and the environment. The march is being promoted by 11.11.11, a Belgian organisation that works on international solidarity. Organisers say public safety should include protection from heat, drought, floods and wildfires, not only defence against conflict. The planned march is part of a wider debate about how governments should respond to climate risks. Extreme weather can damage homes, roads, farms and public services. It can also affect food supplies, water access and the cost…