22.10.2026 04:20
An initiative founded by young people in Germany has called for demonstrations in 21 cities, including Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg and Munich, on October 31 to protest schools, the cost of living and compulsory military service. The police union warned that possible violence would be met with a harsh response.
According to DW, the initiative "Gen Z regelt" (Generation Z handles it), led by young people in Germany, called for mass demonstrations in 21 cities across the country on Saturday, October 31. The cities where actions will take place include Berlin, Cologne, Hamburg, and Munich.
Thousands of people are expected to take part in the demonstrations. Organizers announced that they will protest against the cost of living, social injustice, compulsory military service, and climate change, especially "crumbling schools and austerity policies."
The call came immediately after weekend protests in France that turned violent and caused major damage to public and private property. The actions in France also began with students' anger at the country's school system and quickly grew with the participation of unions and various groups.
On the initiative's website, it is clearly emphasized that they are against all forms of violence against people or property.
The police, meanwhile, reported that they are "alert but calm" and will protect people's right to assemble and express their views. However, images of major destruction and violence from France, Italy, and Spain have increased concerns among German politicians and security agencies that the actions could be exploited by far-left groups.
Andreas Roßkopf, head of the GdP union affiliated with the Federal Police, said in a statement to the Rheinische Post newspaper that state and federal police would give a "determined and tough response" to possible disturbances. Roßkopf warned that radicals and extremists could mix among the demonstrators and attack the police or may simply want to cause destruction.
Source: DW