Gen Z protests reach Germany as over 160,000 expected at Halloween rallies

Over 160,000 young people in Germany are set to participate in demonstrations on Halloween (October 31) as part of a youth-led movement inspired by protests in Europe, organisers say. The protests, organized by campaign group Gen Z regelt, aim to address better education and lower living costs, particularly as Germany grapples with rising costs and economic challenges amid an ageing population.

Authorities expect the demonstrations to be peaceful, but warn of potential unrest involving extremist groups. Some German businesses are preparing for possible unrest, especially in major cities like Berlin and Frankfurt. Critics, including Germany's far-left student umbrella organisation, BSK, have distanced themselves from the initiative, emphasising that the focus should remain on genuine youth concerns.