Hooded individuals vandalized and looted shops in Frankfurt on Saturday night as youth-led demonstrations over rising living costs, education funding and compulsory military service turned violent.
The protests, organized under the campaign “Gen Z regelt,” or “Gen Z takes charge,” took place in 34 major German cities, including Berlin, Munich and Frankfurt.
The demonstrators called for increased investment in public education and opposed plans for mandatory military service, reflecting growing concerns among young Europeans over economic pressures and government policies affecting their future.
In Frankfurt, Germany’s financial hub, the demonstrations escalated into clashes. Local officials and witnesses reported that emergency responders were targeted with Molotov cocktails, while several businesses were vandalized and looted.
Police urged residents to avoid the city center as disturbances continued into the evening.
Although nationwide turnout was initially lower than organizers had anticipated, regional officials said the rallies began peacefully before being disrupted by individuals engaging in violence.
Hesse Interior Minister Roman Poseck condemned the unrest, warning that extremist groups were attempting to exploit the demonstrations. He also drew comparisons with recent episodes of civil unrest in France.
Security concerns had prompted several businesses to take precautions even before the protests. Shops along major commercial streets, including Berlin’s Kurfuerstendamm, boarded up their windows and closed early.
Organizers say the demonstrations reflect mounting frustration among younger generations over economic stagnation, limited opportunities and growing pressure on public services in Europe's largest economy.
