Mass youth protests by the 'Gen Z regelt' movement expected in Germany on 31 October

Large-scale actions planned ahead of Halloween

A series of major youth protest actions will take place in Germany on 31 October. According to data released by the DPA agency, events are planned in nearly 30 cities across the country. Key locations mentioned include Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt, and Munich.

Organisers' positions and participants' demands

The initiator of the events is the 'Gen Z regelt' ('Generation Z decides') movement. Organisers emphasise the peaceful nature of the planned gatherings. Participants have put forward a number of demands: reducing the cost of living, increasing funding for education, social protection, and healthcare. Protesters also oppose the reduction of social programmes, the introduction of mandatory military service, and the increase in military spending.

The movement is inspired by recent youth uprisings in France, which were accompanied by riots, arson, and looting.

Security and authorities' concerns

Against the backdrop of events in the neighbouring country, German authorities are expressing concern about the possibility of clashes. According to information from the Federal Ministry of the Interior, certain left-wing radical and extremist groups have joined the organisation of the protests.

Brandenburg Interior Minister Jan Redmann drew attention to the symbolism of the chosen date. He stressed that the choice of 31 October is not accidental: on Halloween, it is easier for participants to hide their faces behind masks.

According to media reports, shop windows in Berlin have already begun to be reinforced in anticipation of the actions.