Thousands of young people took to the streets across Germany on 31 October, calling for a better future and a stronger voice in political decisions.
The demonstrations, organised under the youth initiative “Gen Z regelt”, took place in more than 30 cities, including Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, Frankfurt and Munich.
In partnership with
Let’s Have an Honest Conversation About Breasts
Breasts are among the most talked about and medically researched parts of the human body, yet many of us are embarrassed to discuss our breast health openly.
Allure Perspectives, a new podcast hosted by Allure editor-in-chief Jessica Cruel, spends its first season exploring how breasts intersect with beauty, health, identity, sexuality, and culture. Episodes feature Olivia Munn on the test she says to take even if your mammogram is clear, sex educator Ericka Hart on reclaiming her body after breast cancer, and a Beverly Hills surgeon on why GLP-1s are driving a surge in breast lifts. All episodes available now.
But what are the protesters demanding?
1. Better education: Young people want more investment in schools and universities, better facilities and an end to budget cuts affecting education.
2. Lower living costs: Rising rents, expensive groceries and financial pressure are making life difficult for students and young workers.
3. No compulsory military service: Many protesters oppose plans to expand military recruitment and mandatory screening, arguing that young people should have a say in decisions affecting their future.
4. More climate protection: Demonstrators are also calling for stronger climate policies and greater social equality.
Organisers had expected a much larger turnout, but participation was below their initial estimates. Police reported around 6,000 participants in Berlin, Frankfurt and Munich combined, while organisers reported higher figures.
The movement has also faced questions about its organisation, although its central message reflects concerns shared by many young people.
The message is clear: Germany’s younger generation wants its future to be taken seriously.