Nearly Half a Million People Took to the Streets in Europe Over the Weekend

Over 450,000 people joined protests across Europe this past weekend, based on figures gathered from organizers and local authorities.

Mass Rallies Sweep Across the Continent

More than 450,000 people joined protests across Europe over the weekend. This is based on data from rally organizers and local authorities. The biggest demonstrations took place in France and Germany.

France Sees Third Straight Weekend of Unrest

France marked its third consecutive Saturday of nationwide protests against the rising cost of living. Trade unions joined the marches. Supporters of the “yellow vest” movement also turned out in large numbers. Students and schoolchildren upset over education policy added to the crowds.

France’s Interior Ministry reported that over 320,000 people took part in protests nationwide. Around 70,000 of them gathered in Paris alone. Police detained more than 770 people during the demonstrations.

Germany’s Youth Lead “Generation Z Decides” Protests

In Germany, roughly 120,000 people joined youth demonstrations as part of the “Generation Z Decides” movement over the weekend, according to organizers. Police detained about 200 people. Protesters pushed for several demands from German authorities. These included education reform, action against the rising cost of living, and a rejection of plans to bring back mandatory military service.

Portugal and Spain Rally Over Living Costs

Protests for housing rights took place across Portugal. Police and local media reported around 7,000 participants, with 13 people detained. Next door in Spain, a protest over living costs, the housing crisis, and education problems drew at least 5,000 people.

Protesters Camp Near Rome’s Colosseum

In Italy, demonstrators pitched roughly 30 tents near the Colosseum on October 31. They were protesting rising living costs and real estate speculation. On November 1, organizers held an assembly with folding tables set up in front of the ancient landmark. They announced plans to keep up their campaign.

Calls for Albania’s Prime Minister to Resign

Protesters also marched through the streets of Tirana, Albania’s capital, demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Several thousand people took part in the demonstrations there.

Unrest Also Hits Switzerland, Netherlands and Austria

Demonstrations also broke out in Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Austria. Police in The Hague reported detaining 34 people during spontaneous protests on October 31, which followed calls for unrest. In Zurich, protests held the same day turned into clashes with police. In Austria, youth protests drew around 100 participants.