Youth-led demonstrations across Germany descended into violence on Saturday, October 31, 2026, as hooded rioters looted shops, damaged businesses and clashed with police in several cities.
The protests, organised by a movement known as “GenZ regelt!” (Gen Z Takes Charge), attracted tens of thousands of young people who took to the streets to demand better education, lower living costs, improved public services and changes to the government’s military policies.
Although the demonstrations were largely peaceful during the day, violence broke out in the evening, particularly in Frankfurt, where protesters threw stones, fireworks and petrol bombs at police officers and emergency personnel.
According to police reports, several shops had their windows smashed, while a gun shop, a trainer store and a perfume shop were among the businesses targeted by looters. Police also recovered two weapons following an attack on the gun shop.
Authorities deployed water cannons and pepper spray to disperse violent groups and closed sections of Frankfurt’s main shopping street as they struggled to restore order.
