Argentina
Students, university workers and supporters have taken to the streets to oppose President Javier Milei’s government over cuts to university funding. They are demanding adequate funding for public universities, better pay for academic staff and financial support that allows students to continue their education. At the heart of the protests is the fear that public higher education is being pushed towards a breaking point.
Italy
Demonstrators have protested rising prices, low wages, housing difficulties and declining public services. Many are frustrated that working hard does not necessarily translate into financial security, particularly as the costs of basic necessities continue to climb. Some demonstrations have also raised concerns about war and government policy.
Portugal
Young people and other demonstrators have taken to the streets over rising rents, soaring property prices, low wages and the difficulty of finding somewhere affordable to live. In Lisbon, protesters have even set up tents to draw attention to the housing crisis. With housing costs rising faster than many people can comfortably manage, the prospect of living independently is becoming increasingly difficult for younger generations.
India
India’s youth-led Cockroach Janta Party movement emerged amid anger over examination failures, including the NEET medical entrance exam controversy, and concerns about the country’s education system. More recently, activists have challenged changes to electoral rolls, alleging political manipulation, while the authorities have denied wrongdoing. The movement has become a broader expression of frustration with institutions that young people believe are failing them.
France
What began with high school students protesting teacher shortages and inadequate school resources has expanded into wider demonstrations over the cost of living and public services. Workers, unions and other groups have joined the protests, reflecting broader dissatisfaction with economic conditions and the state of essential services. Although many demonstrations have been peaceful, some have escalated into violent clashes.
Spain
Housing affordability has become a major source of anger, particularly among young renters struggling with high rents and limited options. In Madrid, protests intensified after an elderly woman was evicted and later died in hospital. Meanwhile, teachers have staged strikes over pay and working conditions. The wider concern is that housing and employment are becoming increasingly difficult to secure, even for people who work hard.
Albania
Students have joined broader anti-government demonstrations calling for Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign. Protesters have raised concerns about alleged corruption, poor education standards, limited employment opportunities and the state of public services. Controversy surrounding a proposed luxury tourism development has also become a focal point for anger over government decisions and accountability.
Brazil
Student-led demonstrations in Rio de Janeiro have opposed presidential candidate Flávio Bolsonaro and the growing influence of Brazil’s far right. Protesters have voiced concerns about democracy, minority rights and the future of public education, while some have also criticised the policies of former president Jair Bolsonaro. Other recent student demonstrations in Brazil have called for an end to the six-day-work, one-day-off schedule, alongside support for public education and social programmes. These are related expressions of political and economic concerns, but they are not all part of the same protest.
Belgium
Students have demonstrated in Brussels and Liège over rising university costs and proposed education reforms. Protesters fear the changes could make higher education less accessible, particularly for students who already face financial pressures. The demonstrations reflect wider concerns about whether young people will be able to access the education they need without taking on an increasingly heavy financial burden.
Written By Fortune Ibeh
Leave a Reply