Student and youth protests that began in France in September are spreading across Europe, with demonstrations or mobilisation in Portugal, Belgium, Italy, Greece, Spain, Albania, Germany and Austria.
Alberto Alemanno, Jean Monnet Professor of European Union Law and Policy at HEC Paris, says France is the epicentre. He cites clashes and well over 100 arrests in Liège, Belgium, and school occupations in Italy under the slogan “Let’s do as in France”.
He says these are separate protests happening at the same time with shared grievances: underfunded education, rising costs and uncertain prospects after graduation. They also share tactics such as blockades, occupations and online mobilisation. He adds that young people feel their future gets less attention, and fear defence spending might curtail welfare spending.
He says Europe is about to enter a “super-cycle” of national elections in which affordability will be central.
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