Berlin: More than 160000 people are expected to participate in youth led demonstrations across Germany on Saturday, as Generation Z protesters demand better education, affordable living conditions and greater government accountability.
The demonstrations, organised by the campaign group Gen Z regelt, meaning "Gen Z takes charge", are planned in 34 cities, including Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich.
The movement follows a wave of youth led protests across Europe, including demonstrations in Serbia and France.
Young Germans demand economic and education reforms
Organisers say that rising living costs, insufficient investment in education and proposals for compulsory military service fuelled frustration among young Germans.
The protests come as Germany struggles with weak economic growth, mounting pressure on public services and demographic challenges stemming from an ageing population.
An 18 year old protest organiser in Munich criticised Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government for failing to address young people's concerns.
Students also raised concerns about the deterioration of university infrastructure.
Sean Baker, a student at the Technical University of Berlin, told Reuters that he intended to demonstrate against the poor condition of university buildings.
Authorities warn against possible unrest
German authorities expect the Halloween demonstrations to remain largely peaceful, but said they worry extremist groups could exploit the gatherings.
The Federal Interior Ministry reported that some far left extremist networks and groups linked to foreign extremist movements participated in efforts to mobilise protesters.
Hesse's Interior Minister Roman Poseck warned against a repeat of violent incidents witnessed during demonstrations in France.
In Berlin, several businesses along the luxury Kurfürstendamm shopping boulevard boarded up their windows and planned early closures as a precautionary measure.
Questions emerge over movement's leadership
Despite the campaign's youth focused identity, questions arose about the involvement of established political organisations and activist groups.
Germany's national student organisation, Bundesschülerkonferenz (BSK), distanced itself from Gen Z regelt while recognising students' legitimate grievances.
The organisation plans to hold separate demonstrations on November 20.
The protests are part of a wider European trend in which younger generations are increasingly mobilising in response to economic pressures, education and political representation.
Organisers estimated participation at more than 160000, although the actual attendance figures are yet to be confirmed.
