The expected closure of the Audi factory in Forest, which could result in thousands of job losses, has become a "symbol of a failed just transition," the Climate Coalition stated on Monday.
Today, 10,000 people are expected to protest in Brussels in support of Audi Brussels workers and subcontractors. The demonstration also aims to raise awareness about the broader challenges facing the European industrial sector.
The Climate Coalition expressed solidarity with those affected by Volkswagen Group’s inadequate investment choices and emphasised that a just transition to a climate-neutral economy "requires careful planning."
The coalition, comprising over 90 Belgian civil society organisations focused on climate justice, criticised both companies and governments. They argued that at regional, federal, and European levels, the transition to a climate-neutral economy has been too slow.
As a result, China has gained a competitive edge in small electric cars, while European manufacturers have lagged with their focus on resource-heavy SUVs accessible mainly to the wealthy.
The Climate Coalition also stressed the importance of including workers in the development of sectoral climate strategies and companies' climate action plans.
"Without employment and training plans for those impacted, Belgium will not make any progress towards a just transition," the coalition warned.
