From Fastcompany · · 2m
Gen Z across Europe riots over cost of living
Protests that began over school funding in France have exploded into a broader movement against housing, food and fuel prices across multiple countries.
In brief
Protests that began over school funding in France have exploded into a broader movement against housing, food and fuel prices across multiple countries. Massive protests erupted across France, Belgium, Spain and Portugal over the weekend as young people demonstrated against poor school conditions and soaring living…
Riots spread across France
Over the weekend, hundreds of thousands of protesters took to the streets in France. Images of burned-out cars and smashed-in store windows flooded social media.
School conditions sparked it
Poor conditions in France's high schools were the initial catalyst for the massive nationwide protests. French high school students and teachers are demanding better education funding.
Teacher shortage driving crisis
A massive teacher shortage has led to ballooning teacher absences in French schools. France's largest labor union supports the protests and is calling for lower prices and increased wages.
Movement expands beyond schools
The demonstrations have expanded into a much larger movement sparking unrest around Europe over the skyrocketing cost of living. High housing and food costs plus soaring fuel prices are driving anger.
Macron vows to restore calm
President Emmanuel Macron has vowed to restore calm and is scheduled to meet this week with protesters. The movement is already gaining ground in Belgium, Portugal, Spain and Italy.
Brussels riots over education cuts
In Belgium, one hundred fifty people were arrested over the weekend in Brussels after riots broke out on Saturday amid protests to cuts in French-speaking education.
Contrast with US activism
On the same weekend, a fresh round of three thousand No Kings events took place in the United States as Americans gathered in all fifty states and Washington D C to encourage early voting.
Why Europe mobilizes differently
The disparity in political activity between Europe and America is startling. Many are asking why so many young people are mobilizing throughout Europe, not only in France but also in Belgium, Spain and Portugal.
The headline
Massive protests erupted across France, Belgium, Spain and Portugal over the weekend as young people demonstrated against poor school conditions and soaring living costs.
