German youth to stage nationwide protests in 32 cities against Merz government policies
Young people across Germany are preparing to hold coordinated demonstrations in 32 cities on October 31, protesting the government's austerity measures, education policies and plans related to compulsory military service. Organisers say the nationwide mobilisation aims to defend young people's future and demand greater investment in education and social welfare.
Growing frustration over the state of Germany's education system, economic pressures and government policies has evolved into a nationwide protest movement led by the Gen Z Regelt (Gen Z Takes Charge) initiative.
Ahead of the demonstrations, the youth-led movement published an open letter addressed to Chancellor Friedrich Merz and his government, accusing the administration of undermining the future of younger generations through spending cuts and policy decisions.
Students, apprentices and young workers involved in the initiative said they could no longer remain silent while opportunities for future generations continued to diminish.
"We are the future of this country, and we can no longer stand by while our future is being sacrificed," the organisers said in the letter, calling for policies that prioritise education, social justice and long-term investment in young people.
Education and economic concerns at the forefront
The initiative criticised deteriorating conditions in schools, teacher shortages and the growing financial burden placed on young people amid rising living costs.
According to the organisers, government officials have repeatedly ignored the concerns of young citizens, while budget cuts have weakened confidence in public institutions and reduced opportunities for students and young workers.
The movement also criticised proposals linked to compulsory military service, arguing that young people should not bear the consequences of political and economic decisions through expanded military obligations.
Demonstrations planned in 32 cities
The organisers announced that peaceful but determined demonstrations will be held simultaneously in 32 cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, Munich and Cologne.
More than 150,000 people have reportedly registered to participate in the nationwide protests, with over 10,000 demonstrators expected in Berlin alone.
The initiative stressed that all demonstrations would remain peaceful and called on participants to reject violence and provocation.
Youth demand greater investment in their future
Among the movement's key demands are increased public investment in education instead of spending cuts, stronger action to address climate change, a fairer distribution of economic burdens, protection of fundamental rights and the withdrawal of proposals that could lead to compulsory military service.
The organisers said the demonstrations are intended to send a clear message that young people want a greater voice in shaping Germany's future and expect policies that place education, social justice and equal opportunities at the centre of government decision-making.(ILKHA)
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