BRUSSELS

A general strike paralyzed Belgium on Wednesday, with airports, rail traffic, and hospitals nationwide all feeling the protest.

According to the Belgian rail authority, only every fourth train is set to offer service. At Brussels airport, more than half of all flights have been canceled.

In addition, there will be significantly fewer buses, streetcars, and metro cars in service in Belgian cities. Hospitals in the capital Brussels and Wallonia regions are also taking part in the strike action.

With the strikes, the unions want to increase the pressure on the government to adopt further measures against the increased cost of living and energy costs.

In the hospitals, however, the strike is mainly over working conditions. The main complaint is a staff shortage, which is leading to burnouts and overwork.