Rome demonstrators storm Colosseum as Europe's youth protests spread

Dramatic scenes unfolded in Rome as thousands of demonstrators stormed the Colosseum during weekend protests against government inaction on youth issues, such as housing, the cost of living, and education, that have spread across Europe. Police reported arrests and detentions, including 110 minors taken to stations in eight cities.

Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's hard-right administration had enacted strict security measures, leading to numerous raids and arrests ahead of the rallies. Demonstrators marched through Italian cities, notably Milan, Rome, and Turin. Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni's government approved stringent security measures, prompting police to make dozens of arrests in advance of the protests.

Alessio Scimone, a 24-year-old protester from Milan, expressed his discontent, stating that they aim to make their voices heard. Despite the Colosseum site remaining undamaged and no injuries reported, clashes erupted between protesters and police in central Rome, with officers employing water cannons to disperse the crowd. Authorities deployed soldiers in Milan, where past protests turned violent, but overall, Milan's demonstrations remained peaceful.

Youth-led movements across Europe have taken to the streets, demanding action on various issues, including education, housing, and the cost of living. Protests have occurred in countries like Spain, Portugal, Belgium, and Albania, as well as smaller demonstrations in Greece, Austria, Ireland, and Germany. France's nationwide protests garnered significant attention, with hundreds of thousands rallying against President Emmanuel Macron.

In Serbia, years of student-led protests against corruption and authoritarianism ultimately resulted in the ousting of President Aleksandar Vučić in parliamentary elections.