Germany and France are preparing for another weekend of protests coinciding with Halloween celebrations, as youth-led demonstrations over rising living costs, deteriorating school conditions and limited economic prospects continue to spread across Europe.
Authorities in both countries have strengthened security measures amid concerns that demonstrations could escalate into violence.
Approximately 150,000 people have registered to participate in demonstrations across roughly 30 German cities on Saturday, including Berlin, Frankfurt and Cologne.
The protests are being organised by GenZ regelt!, a youth-led movement challenging government spending cuts, poorly maintained schools and political decisions perceived as neglecting younger generations.
German authorities plan to deploy thousands of additional police officers, while some luxury jewellery retailers and clothing stores have boarded up their windows over fears of looting and property damage.
The planned demonstrations reflect broader frustrations among young Europeans over affordability, educational standards and uncertainty about their futures.
France is deploying approximately 70,000 police officers nationwide as students, trade unions and yellow vest protesters prepare for another weekend of demonstrations.
The movement began in September over school conditions before expanding into nationwide protests against rising living costs and fuel prices.
Demonstrations have continued despite government proposals addressing student grievances, which unions consider insufficient.
Following widespread violence and looting on October 17, authorities introduced additional restrictions, including bans on city-centre demonstrations and face coverings.
More than 40 Paris metro stations face closures, while curfews have been imposed in districts previously affected by unrest.
Saturday's authorised Paris march will follow a route between Porte de Bagnolet and Porte de Charenton.
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has warned that Halloween festivities could complicate policing, particularly amid calls for unauthorised gatherings.
Unions have criticised the restrictions as disproportionate, while human rights organisations continue raising concerns about alleged excessive police force.
Businesses have also expressed anxiety about further disruption as authorities seek to prevent renewed clashes without halting permitted demonstrations.