Over 160,000 Expected at Gen Z-Led Halloween Protests Across Germany
More than 160,000 people are expected to participate in demonstrations across Germany on Saturday, October 31, as the Gen Z-led movement takes to the streets demanding better education, lower living costs and greater opportunities for young people. Organised by the campaign group Gen Z regelt, the protests are planned across 34 cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich. The demonstrations follow a wider wave of youth-led protests that have spread across several European countries this year.
The movement also opposes compulsory military service and calls for increased government investment in education. German authorities expect the demonstrations to remain largely peaceful but have warned that extremist groups could attempt to exploit the gatherings. Ahead of the rallies, some businesses along Berlin’s luxury Kurfuerstendamm shopping boulevard have boarded up their windows and planned early closures amid concerns about possible unrest.
The protests come as Germany faces economic challenges, pressure on public services and growing concerns over the financial future of younger generations. However, questions have emerged about the movement’s leadership and political affiliations, with Germany’s national school student organisation distancing itself from the campaign while acknowledging that students have legitimate concerns. Protesters say they will continue demonstrating until the government addresses their demands.
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