Massive crowds protest austerity measures in Belgium

Tens of thousands of protesters have marched through Belgium’s capital to protest against new austerity measures brought on by Europe’s financial crisis.

The march – organised by the three main trade unions – protested over the budget cuts which will be forced through next year to get the country’s deficit within 3% of GDP and meet targets set by the European Union.

The unions specifically oppose the extension of early retirement, cuts in unemployment benefits and the social security budget.

Union leaders are to meet Elio Di Rupo, the Socialist leader who pushed through the budget measures and is set to be sworn in as prime minister on Monday.