Generation Z Protests Sweep Europe as French School Demonstrations Escalate

A town hall in France has been set on fire as protests spread across Europe. Since October 17, what began as student demonstrations in France over deteriorating schools, teacher shortages and poor learning conditions has widened into nationwide protests cutting across population groups. Estimates put turnout in numerous cities at between 550,000 and 800,000 people, with demonstrators opposing rising living costs, demanding better education, rejecting the government and calling for a change of policy. Serious rioting broke out in some locations, including Limoges. Young people have also taken to the streets in Spain, Italy, Belgium and Albania. The movements appear unrelated at first glance, yet they share a notable common feature: across half of Europe it is mainly young people who are protesting. In France, pupils have demonstrated for weeks, blockading schools and at times clashing violently.