BELGIUM PROTESTS

Global Market: French bond selloff raises debt concerns across Europe amid social unrest

French 10-year bond yields surged above 5%, reaching a 24-year high, as fiscal deficits, political deadlock and social unrest unsettled investors. Rising borrowing costs are spreading to Italy and Belgium, intensifying concerns over eurozone debt sustainability, fiscal reforms and the region’s financial stability amid mounting economic pressures and uncertainty.

Thailand, Malaysia urge citizens to avoid protest-hit EU nations

Thailand and Malaysia have advised their citizens to reconsider travel to Europe due to ongoing protests. The Thai Foreign Minister highlighted concerns regarding unrest in France, Italy, Spain, and other countries. As demonstrations against the cost of living continue, safety is a major priority for traveling citizens. China also issued warnings for its nationals traveling to France amid rising violence.

‘Unacceptable and stupid’: Macron hits back at Trump, Netanyahu for 'exploiting France's riots'

Emmanuel Macron addressed recent riots in France during a visit to Qatar. He claimed that some foreign leaders are exploiting the situation for their political agendas. Macron criticized the spread of misinformation, including fake images and reports about France's condition. He highlighted that the criticism from these leaders reflects their discontent with France.

From France to Italy, Belgium and Spain: Housing crisis, rising costs, education fuel wave of protests across Europe

Protests against living costs and housing affordability have escalated across Europe, particularly affecting youth and workers. Countries such as Italy and Belgium have seen violent demonstrations, with numerous arrests reported. Spain is facing a housing crisis, prompting protests ahead of an upcoming election, while Portugal's demonstrations have echoed similar grievances. In France, public unrest began with students but has expanded to broader economic issues.

As France erupts, Europe's far right gains from fuel-price anger ahead of elections

The tractors rolling into the town of Gela on the southern tip of Europe are flying the Sicilian flag, emblazoned with Medusa, three bent legs and ears of wheat, a reminder of the island's role as a breadbasket

France protests: How a viral TikTok rumour, 132 million views and the ‘Young Vests’ slogan revived memories of the 2018 Yellow Vests movement

France protests on October 17 drew attention to a viral TikTok campaign that reportedly garnered 132 million views and 18 million likes. The online mobilisation revived memories of the 2018 Yellow Vests movement, as students, workers and protesters voiced anger over rising fuel prices, living costs and deteriorating public services.

France protests: Why are half a million people on the streets in the country?

Protests against the government have escalated in France, involving more than 500,000 participants across major cities. While the protests began as a student-led movement focused on educational issues, they have since expanded to include grievances about the rising cost of living. Police responded with force as violence erupted in places like Paris and Lyon, where looting and arson was reprorted. The government said that 1,200 arrests had been made.

What's happening with Britain's Jerusalem consulate?

Britain has decided to keep its nearly 200-year-old consulate in Jerusalem open under the new name UK Mission. This decision comes after Israel ordered the consulate's closure following Britain's announcement of sanctions on settlement goods. The consulate, established during the Ottoman Empire, mainly serves Palestinians in Jerusalem, the West Bank, and Gaza. Jerusalem’s status remains contested internationally, with East Jerusalem considered occupied.

French riot police fire tear gas as more than 2,50,000 join student protests nationwide

Protests in France have seen over a quarter of a million people rally for education funding support. High school students began demonstrations two weeks ago, leading to school blockades and police responses. Authorities have shut down several schools to control the situation and ensure safety. Meanwhile, an online portal has been launched for students to voice their complaints and proposals.

Europe’s Gen Z is out on the barricades: What's bothering the youth?

In a wave of activism, youth in France, Belgium, Ireland, and Spain are taking to the streets to address critical challenges affecting their lives. Protesters highlight issues such as the failing education system in France, the financial hurdles in Irish higher education, and the steep rental prices pushing Spaniards into dependency. These movements underscore deep-seated generational anxieties, pointing to a widespread sentiment of uncertainty that resonates throughout Europe.

Spielberg paid $250,000 for this man’s life story. His 18-year stay at a Paris Airport inspired The Terminal that made $219 mn. Then he returned to the same airport and died there

Mehran Karimi Nasseri spent almost two decades living in the bustling Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris. His remarkable journey inspired a Hollywood film featuring Tom Hanks, which achieved box office success. Following a health crisis, Nasseri transitioned to Parisian shelters but later returned to the airport, where he ultimately passed away in 2022. His life story illustrates the profound effects of bureaucratic entanglements.

18-year-old student working as a labourer finds nearly Rs 100 crore gold treasure while digging a sewer

Belgium sewage worker gold discovery: An 18-year-old construction workers in Belgium uncovered gold bars, rare coins, nuggets and numbered bullion worth around 9 million euros (nearly Rs 98 crore) while working on a sewer project. The treasure was hidden inside a bricked-in cellar wall beneath a historic villa.

Jason Arday death: Cambridge’s youngest Black professor found dead amid plagiarism allegations and scrutiny

Jason Arday, a Cambridge professor, was found deceased after facing plagiarism allegations. He resigned from his position amid intense media scrutiny and public pressure. Arday's family stated misinformation campaigns significantly impacted him. The university is investigating the circumstances surrounding his employment and hiring processes. Police are treating his death as unexpected but not suspicious.

Belgium's nationwide strike likely to disrupt most flights next month

Belgian air travel will face significant disruption on March 12. Trade unions are striking nationwide against government budget measures. Airports like Brussels and Charleroi anticipate most flights will be cancelled. Passengers should check with airlines. Security staff, baggage handlers, and air traffic controllers are involved. This will impact airport operations severely.

Belgian national strike disrupts flights and public transport

Belgium's third day of national strike caused widespread disruption. Most flights at Brussels Airport were cancelled. Public transport faced significant delays. Unions protest proposed pension and labor market reforms by Prime Minister Bart De Wever's government. A large demonstration is planned in Brussels. The government aims to cut the deficit through new taxes and spending cuts.

Chaos in Belgium: Pro-Palestine activists sabotage military vehicles destined for Ukraine

Pro-Palestinian activists targeted Belgian defense companies, including OIP in Tournai, causing significant damage to military equipment intended for Ukraine. The activists, numbering around 100, broke into OIP, vandalizing property and delaying crucial deliveries. OIP's CEO stated that the company hasn't supplied Israel with weapons in over 20 years and condemned the actions as vandalism.

Angry farmers invade Brussels, protesting low pay, and high taxes ahead of the EU Summit

Iran diplomat's 20-year sentence for France bomb plot confirmed

Assadollah Assadi, 49, was convicted in February by an Antwerp court of supplying explosives for the planned June 30, 2018 attack on the exiled opposition group the National Council of Resistance in Iran (NCRI).

Hi-tech scanning machines needed to secure airports: Ajai Sahni

A primitive solution is available in the Srinagar model where suitcases and bags are first scanned much before the main airport.

Trade union strike in Brussels: Jet Airways cancels 2 flights, reroutes 2

"The planned nationwide strike in Belgium on Monday, December 15 will directly affect flight operations in and out of BRU," a Jet statement said.

Trade union strike in Brussels, Jet Airways cancels four flights

A series of strikes have been planned in Belgium on Monday which are likely to disrupt all modes like ship movement, road, rail and air transport.

EU ministers to raise alarm on ArcelorMittal lay-offs

ArcelorMittal is shutting down six cold-processing facilities in the Liege region of eastern Belgium, blaming weak demand.