Belgian military unions have sharply criticised Defence Minister Theo Francken’s reform proposals, claiming they fall significantly short of expectations.
On Tuesday, the unions, including ACOD Defensie, VSOA Defensie, ACV Openbare Diensten, and ACMP, met with the minister to discuss the Federal Government’s pension plans. However, talks quickly soured.
"The proposals presented to us show a blatant lack of respect for the military profession," the unions stated in a joint release. They accused Minister Francken of portraying himself as an ally of military personnel on social media while failing to demonstrate genuine respect for their contributions.
A major sticking point remains the lack of harmonisation of military status with other services, such as the police. "Military personnel are the only workforce not compensated for every hour worked," explained Yves Huwart of ACMP, adding that soldiers are effectively paid only part-time wages.
"In return, we used to retire earlier, but those rules are now being discarded. We are treated as cheap labour," he argued.
The reform of military status has long been contentious. Unions mainly criticise the significant investment in military equipment, which they claim leaves insufficient funds to improve personnel working conditions.
There is concern that more individuals will leave the military for other sectors offering better terms. The prospect of extended service without compensatory measures is also met with little understanding.
Neither the unions nor the minister would elaborate on the specific proposals. However, Huwart described them as "meagre offerings," insisting substantial progress is needed.
"The proposals amount to social dumping: substandard working conditions, inadequate attention to well-being, and a structural lack of appreciation. We hope to receive a written response by 6 June, addressing our many questions. We also need to know how much room there is for negotiation. Currently, it feels like a take-it-or-leave-it situation."
