A nationwide public transport strike in the Netherlands commenced this morning, orchestrated by unions protesting proposed cuts to social security benefits. The unions are demanding the government retract a planned 6.5 billion euro reduction in social security spending, specifically targeting pensions (AOW), unemployment benefits (WW), and disability insurance (WIA). The FNV union has warned of further disruptions after the summer if their concerns are not addressed. The current minority government’s plans involve raising the retirement age, shortening unemployment benefits, and reducing disability payments. Negotiations with the government stalled earlier this year due to these proposed changes, and unions are refusing further talks until the cuts are removed from the upcoming budget. While the Minister of Social Affairs has indicated a potential reversal on accelerating the AOW age increase, unions await official confirmation in the budget.