Protests and Riots Shake Multiple European Nations Over Cost of Living and Housing

Streets across major European cities have turned into battlefields after weeks of widespread protests fueled by rising fuel costs, declining public services, poor school conditions, and a severe housing crisis.

Unrest in France

In France, high school students started blockades three weeks ago demanding better resources for understaffed schools. The movement grew when the CGT labour union and other activists joined in. Weekend demonstrations led to 2,400 arrests and severe violence in Paris, Marseille, Lyon, Bordeaux, and Limoges, where flames nearly destroyed the 19th-century City Hall and a fire engulfed a school. French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence in a televised address, accusing far-left activists of causing chaos and vowing that rioters would pay for damages.

Housing Protests in Spain and Portugal

Spain and Portugal have seen tent camps set up in cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Lisbon, and Porto to protest high rent and housing costs. In Madrid, protests began after the eviction of an 87-year-old woman named Maricarmen who later died in the hospital. Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez announced a snap election for November after Parliament failed to pass affordable housing measures, and a general strike is planned for next month. Meanwhile, Spanish teachers started an indefinite strike in Madrid over pay and work conditions.

Demonstrations in Italy and Albania

In Italy, thousands joined marches under the banner "Italia in Piazza" to demand better jobs, healthcare, education, housing, and higher wages. Peaceful marches turned violent in Turin, Bologna, and Milan, where 271 people were arrested and 14 security force members were injured. A new group called the "Oct. 17 Movement" has announced permanent Saturday demonstrations across Italy. Anti-government demonstrations also took place in Tirana, Albania, featuring crowds gathering around burning garbage bins.

Context

These simultaneous protests come as several major European economies approach pivotal elections and far-right parties make electoral gains. Frustrated young people and labor groups are driving much of the movement in response to economic pressures like high inflation and unaffordable housing.