Thousands urge for climate action at Brussels demonstration

On a Sunday, an estimated 45,000 to 60,000 people gathered in Brussels, Belgium's capital, to march towards the European Union's headquarters. They demanded more action to address climate change before the upcoming UN summit in Antalya, Turkey. The extreme heatwaves across Europe this summer have heightened concerns about the effects of human-induced climate change on the continent.

The Climate Coalition organized the protest, joining forces with other organizations such as Groen, Flanders' green political party. The coalition proposed five pivotal demands, including ending fossil fuel subsidies, taxing the fossil fuel industry, increasing green spaces, offering more support for citizens and businesses transitioning away from fossil fuels, and promoting international cooperation in combating climate change.

Aimen Horch, the President of the Green Party in Flanders and Brussels, noted that the demands have remained constant, but the urgency to act has never been greater. Belgium, like many European nations, has experienced an unprecedented surge in excess deaths during the recent heatwaves. Horch expressed frustration at politicians for their perceived lack of action, emphasizing that climate goals seem to be losing priority on the political agenda.

Economist Etienne de Callatay echoed the concerns of many demonstrators, stating that the extreme heat experienced this summer is a clear sign that politicians should not be afraid to take bold environmental measures. Aurore Schreiber, an activist for a development cooperation NGO, added that she attended the march with her family to ensure politicians hear the citizens' message, particularly the concerns of young people and the most vulnerable.

She emphasized the need for greener, fairer supply chains that account for workers' issues and wages.

The EU, despite its hopes for a more ambitious deal in Brazil last year, now sets lower expectations for the upcoming COP31 in Turkey. The situation looks even bleaker due to the United States' withdrawal from the negotiations under President Donald Trump, energy price surges benefiting major oil and gas producers, and the EU's recent watering down of its own environmental legislation.