Youth Rally in Germany on Saturday Expected to Draw Over 160,000 People, Demanding Better Education and Living Costs

Key summary

Organizers stated that over 160,000 people are expected to participate in rallies across Germany on Saturday, October 31st. The movement, led by youth and inspired by protests in other European countries, is marching to demand better education and lower living costs. This protest follows a trend among Gen Z in Europe this year, where students in Serbia helped oust a leader through elections, and in France, protests escalated into riots. The "Gen Z regelt" campaign is organizing rallies in 34 cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt, and Munich, to protest mandatory conscription and demand increased investment in education, as young people struggle with rising costs. German authorities expect the rallies to be peaceful but are warning against extremist groups attempting to exploit the situation. The Interior Ministry stated that left-wing extremist groups and those with foreign connections are mobilizing support. Roman Posek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hesse, stated that France should not be used as a model for looting. In Berlin, businesses in the Kurfürstendamm district are closing windows and preparing to close early. Organizers are putting pressure on the younger generation in Europe's largest economy. Steve, 18, who spoke in Munich, criticized Chancellor Friedrich Merz for not addressing concerns but continuing to cut budgets. He stated that he will continue to exercise his right to protest until he is heard. The protests are taking place as Germany is recovering its economy and facing pressure regarding pensions and public services due to baby boomers retiring and the working-age population shrinking. There are questions about the driving forces behind the campaign and whether it is truly youth-led. The National Association of German Student Organizations (BSK) is distancing itself from this initiative and will hold separate protests on November 20th. Amy Kischow, Secretary of the BSK, stated that they are distancing themselves from "Gen Z regelt" but not from the students who have legitimate concerns. Chan Baker, a student from the Technical University of Berlin, will participate to draw attention to the poor condition of the campus buildings' budget.