Protests against the rising cost of living have spread across several European countries, with clashes between demonstrators and police. In Germany, thousands of citizens took to the streets to oppose the rising cost of living, public spending cuts and compulsory military service. What began as a largely peaceful demonstration ended with violent incidents, looting of shops and damage to property.
The most serious incidents were recorded in Frankfurt, while tensions also occurred in Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg. Protesters attacked police and emergency services with stones, bottles and fireworks, forcing authorities to use water cannons to disperse the crowd. In Frankfurt, the windows of several businesses were smashed, including a weapons shop, while police made arrests and seized two firearms.
The demonstrations were organized by the activist group Gen Z regelt, which calls for more funding for education and healthcare, as well as a fairer distribution of the economic burden.
Meanwhile, massive protests were also held in France, where more than 320,000 people took to the streets. In several cities there were clashes with police, the use of tear gas and more than 500 arrests.
Tensions were also reported in Italy, in Rome and Turin, as well as in Portugal, where citizens opposed a draft law on rents.
Over recent weeks, youth protest movements have spread to several countries, including Belgium, Ireland, Spain, Greece, Serbia and Albania. Despite differences in demands, the main concerns relate to the economic crisis, rising prices, difficulties in finding housing, education and the lack of prospects for the younger generation.