Protests turn violent in France and Germany as unrest grips Europe
Demonstrations over living costs and education led to clashes, looting, and hundreds of arrests across several countries.
Protesters in France and Germany engaged in violent demonstrations on Saturday, involving looting, petrol bombs, and clashes with authorities, according to reports by Hindustan Times and Business Standard. In France, the demonstrations marked a third consecutive weekend of unrest driven by concerns over education and living costs.
The French government estimated that 3,20,000 people participated in nationwide protests on Saturday, a decrease from 5,50,000 on October 17 and 4,10,000 on October 24. While some marches remained peaceful, unrest broke out near Porte de Charenton in Paris, where protesters launched fireworks and glass bottles. French authorities reported that over 560 people were arrested nationwide by Saturday night.
In Germany, thousands joined youth-led protests across 34 cities, including Berlin, Munich, and Frankfurt. In Frankfurt, hooded rioters looted shops, including a gun store, and threw petrol bombs at police. Frankfurt police reported that several officers were injured and confirmed that one suspect was arrested and two weapons were seized.
Protesters in Germany voiced opposition to compulsory military service and demanded more investment in education. In Berlin, Lina Friedrich, a Gen Z regelt spokesperson, said the group is fighting for peace, freedom, and better support for health and education systems.
In Portugal, demonstrators in Lisbon protested against a housing crisis, demanding the government scrap a bill that makes evictions easier. Meanwhile, in the Netherlands, heavy police presence was noted in The Hague following online appeals for protests.