Young Europeans protest as the promise of a better life fades

The demonstrations reflect a broader grievance: the post-war expectation that each generation would enjoy better prospects than the last is losing credibility. For many young people, milestones such as a degree, stable work, a home and financial independence appear increasingly difficult to reach. Their demands include affordable rent, good schools, secure employment and reliable social and healthcare protection.

Europe’s population is ageing. On 1 January 2025, 22 percent of the EU population was 65 or older, up from 17 percent in 2005—about 99 million people. Eurostat puts the bloc’s median age at 44.9, compared with 39.6 two decades earlier. The post-war model of expanding education, welfare and social security helped tie economic growth to hopes of social mobility. Rising public debt, budget limits and austerity have since put spending on those services under pressure.

In Belgium, demonstrations have brought thousands into the streets since October. The country’s coalition government is struggling to agree on a budget. Prime Minister Bart de Wever submitted his resignation to the king on 2 October, but it was not accepted. Belgium recorded a public deficit of €33.22 billion last year, equal to 5.2 percent of GDP. The National Bank of Belgium said in its 2026 conclusions that “the decline in revenue could not be offset by spending restraint.” Proposed reforms target pensions, unemployment benefits, healthcare and public spending. Some protesters carried signs reading, “Those Who Sow Misery Reap Anger.”

Trade unions led the demonstrations, joined by students and secondary-school pupils concerned about education funding, school conditions, access to higher education and employment prospects. In Germany, the youth-led initiative Gen Z Steht Auf called demonstrations in 21 cities for 31 October. Its demands included more investment in social security, healthcare and affordable housing, as well as opposition to military conscription. Young people in France, Germany, Belgium, Romania, Spain and Greece have also called for political change.