Germany’s Gen Z protests turn violent, Frankfurt shops looted as police deploy water cannons
Germany’s Gen Z protests turn violent. (Image courtesy: X/@theinformant_x)
New Delhi: The living costs in Germany have risen and people all over the country are protesting against such cost rises, cuts in public services, and the increase in the size of the country’s military. This protest, which initially started as a peaceful one, turned into a violent protest after dark hours on Saturday.
The movement was organized by the Gen Z regelt campaign group, which means “Gen Z takes control.” The movement represents frustration from youth regarding their future and where the government allocates its funds.
Youth are primarily worried about increasing costs of living, dilapidated schools and reductions in public services like healthcare. Youth desire improved education, better public services, and more expenditure by the government on citizens’ needs.
Military growth plans of Germany have also become an area of great importance. The government is planning to expand its troop size by implementing the concept of voluntary military service. But it seems that this trend may lead to the institution of compulsory military service in the future.
They claim that the government must not put pressure on the young generations when schools and basic public services suffer from a shortage of funds.
According to the spokeswoman of the Gen Z regelt movement, Lina Friedrich, the group wants more assistance in healthcare and education. In addition, she opposes conscription in the military and an equal share of responsibility, Reuters reported.
Frankfurt sees worst violence
While demonstrations throughout the day remained calm, in many cities violence broke out in the evening. Protesters in Frankfurt threw fireworks and stones at emergency workers, while others were seen smashing shop windows and looting shops.
Water cannon and special police forces were used to restore law and order. One of the shops which suffered damage was that of a gun, BBC reported. The authorities seized two guns from a person who had been arrested.
The German politician Roman Poseck, member of federal council, claimed that more than 100 left-wing extremists had slipped into the meeting in Frankfurt. He condemned the violence and warned against Germany following the same route as was taken by France.
According to reports, in Cologne, officers were attacked near the main railway station. Berlin police reported 27 officers injured and up to 56 people temporarily detained. In Hamburg, groups set off fireworks and burned barricades, with local media reporting around 120 arrests.
The situation in Frankfurt had calmed down by Sunday morning.
Germany’s unrest comes amid growing youth-led demonstrations across Europe. France witnessed another major mobilization on Saturday, with more than 320,000 people taking part in largely peaceful gatherings over living costs and declining public services. Clashes in several cities resulted in more than 500 arrests.
Similar movements have emerged in Italy, Portugal, Belgium, Ireland, Spain, Greece, Serbia and Albania. Their demands vary, but housing affordability, education, employment opportunities and cuts to public services remain common concerns.
In Germany, organizers estimated that around 120,000 people participated, while authorities reported lower figures in several cities.
The Gen Z regelt movement has distanced itself from the violence, stating that extremist groups, racism and hate speech have no place in its campaign. Nevertheless, the clashes have raised concerns over public safety and the presence of extremist elements.
