Brussels, September 17, 2024 — The Europe Today: Thousands of protesters gathered in Brussels on Monday to voice their support for autoworkers facing imminent job losses due to the potential shutdown of Audi’s manufacturing facility in the Belgian capital. Approximately 5,500 demonstrators assembled at Brussels-North train station before marching towards the European Parliament, according to local police reports. The rally was primarily led by the employees of Audi’s Brussels plant, which employs around 3,000 individuals. Reports indicate that up to 90% of these workers could be laid off as early as next year.
The demonstration follows Audi’s recent announcement regarding a significant decline in demand for its high-end Q8 e-tron, a model produced at the Brussels facility. The automaker cited high logistical and production costs as factors contributing to the potential closure. Despite this, Audi Brussels’ spokesman, Peter D’Hoore, has suggested that the plant might not shut down completely, as it could potentially shift to producing parts for other Audi factories.
The Brussels plant is notably involved in the production of electronic vehicles, a sector the European Union is promoting as critical for future growth amidst increasing global competition, particularly from China and the US. This sector’s importance is underscored by the recent moves of Volkswagen Group, Audi’s parent company, which has recently announced significant restructuring efforts.
Earlier this month, Volkswagen Group made headlines by ending its domestic job guarantee scheme and revealing plans to close several plants and implement widespread layoffs in Germany. CEO Oliver Blume attributed these drastic measures to the lingering effects of the pandemic and increased competition from Asian automakers. The German automotive sector has been struggling under the weight of self-imposed budgetary restrictions, which have limited stimulus measures, and the country’s decision to forgo affordable Russian energy sources. These factors have exacerbated the challenges faced by Volkswagen and other automotive manufacturers in maintaining competitiveness.
The protest in Brussels highlights the growing concern over the future of the automotive industry in Europe and the impact of global market dynamics on local employment.
