Gen Z Protests Spread Across Germany Amid Concerns Over Costs and Policies

Thousands of young people across Germany took to the streets in 34 cities on Saturday to protest against rising living costs, education spending cuts, and plans to strengthen the military. The demonstrations, organized by the youth group 'GenZ regelt!', were largely peaceful during the day but turned violent in the evening in several major cities.

In Frankfurt, masked rioters looted shops and clashed with police, who used water cannons and pepper spray. Several shops had their windows smashed, and a gun store was among the targets. Police arrested a suspect and seized two weapons. A trainer shop and a perfume store were also reportedly looted.

Authorities said the protests had been infiltrated by extremist groups, raising concerns about potential violence. Roman Poseck, interior minister of Hesse, stated that around 100 identified left-wing extremists had joined the protest in Frankfurt. He described the situation as involving 'violent riots' and noted that several shops had their windows smashed.

The GenZ regelt! movement distanced itself from the violence, stating that extremist groups had no place in its demonstrations. The group emphasized that it opposed extremist groups, anti-constitutional symbols, racism, and hate speech. However, separate protests in Berlin saw demonstrators throw eggs and bottles at police, with at least one officer injured.

Protesters expressed concerns over the government's plans to increase troop numbers through a voluntary military service model, fearing it could lead to compulsory conscription. They also called for greater investment in education and public services, citing the poor condition of university buildings and the financial burden on young people.

Despite the organizers' initial estimate of 182,000 participants, official figures showed significantly lower turnout. Police in Frankfurt, Munich, and Berlin reported around 6,000 participants, compared to approximately 36,000 on the organizers' website. Some participants dressed in Halloween costumes, carrying slogans like 'Time for resistance' and 'Merz must go', targeting Chancellor Friedrich Merz.