A Wave of Youth-Led Protests Sweeps Across Europe
El Salto
- Since May 2025, Gen Z and Gen Alpha have become the primary drivers of widespread protests across Europe and the globe, focusing on housing, education, and economic inequality.
Country-Specific Developments
- Spain: Following the eviction of Maricarmen in September, the housing movement has allied with education and labor sectors, leading to historic mobilizations.
- France: Student revolts against austerity measures have escalated into massive nationwide protests involving labor unions and students, destabilizing Emmanuel Macron’s administration.
- Serbia: A youth-led movement sparked by a tragic train station collapse is challenging the government of Aleksandar Vučić, with students fielding their own legislative candidates.
- Portugal: Protests against skyrocketing housing costs and living standards have led to plaza occupations in Lisbon and Porto, mirroring the Spanish model.
- Albania: Student-led mobilizations against university conditions and government corruption have devolved into widespread anti-government revolts.
- Others: Similar youth-led demonstrations regarding education cuts, high rents, and remilitarization have occurred in Italy, Belgium, Germany, the Netherlands, and Greece.
Underlying Causes and Dynamics
- Youth Political Engagement: Young people born in the 21st century are rejecting stereotypes of apathy, mobilizing against the loss of the socioeconomic security enjoyed by previous generations.
- Intersectional Alliances: The movements have successfully bridged housing rights with labor strikes and education protests, creating a broad, unified front.
- Analysis: Observers like Greta Thunberg and commentators from The Guardian note that these disconnected waves share a common thread: young people who feel their futures are being stolen by neoliberal policies.