Young protesters demand a voice as politicians point to reforms

Tens of thousands of young people demonstrated across Germany over the weekend, calling for more say in decisions about their future. BR reported that their demands include better-funded education, social security and climate protection, affordable living and opposition to a possible return of compulsory military service.

The initiative Gen Z regelt called for protests in cities across the country. Demonstrations also took place in Bavaria, including in Munich, Nuremberg and Augsburg. Steven Sedehi, the initiative’s Munich spokesperson, said organisers were pleased with the turnout and support, including from older generations.

Sedehi said protesters wanted answers and action from politicians. He pointed to opposition among young people to compulsory military service, saying legislation was still moving forward without young people having a seat at the table.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz praised young people for engaging in politics and worrying about their future, but said the government was working on reforms. Bavaria’s minister for youth and democracy, Manuel Knoll, said the protests highlighted the need for fairness between generations. Youth researcher Kilian Hampel urged politicians to reach out to young people and discuss their concerns with them.

Family Minister Karin Prien also said younger people’s interests should receive greater consideration, adding that older generations might have to give something up. However, she said she had a different position on military or civic service.

Merz condemned violence that broke out in some cities after the demonstrations, while noting that most young people had protested peacefully. He said attacks on police and emergency workers and the looting of shops would not be tolerated.