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Peaceful protests in Germany spiral into violence and looting

BBC News •
November 01, 2026 • 06:51 PM
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Thousands joined largely orderly demonstrations earlier in the day, before violence erupted in Frankfurt, Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg.

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Rioters looted shops in central Frankfurt late on Saturday as clashes erupted in German cities over the cost of living.

The rallies were organised by the campaign group Gen Z regelt - meaning "Gen Z takes charge". Thousands had taken part in the largely peaceful demonstrations across Germany before violence broke out.

At least 54 people were arrested in Frankfurt and over 100 police officers left injured, according to German authorities.

Besides Frankfurt - Germany's financial hub - there were outbreaks of violence in Berlin, Cologne and Hamburg.

This comes as protests have been taking place across Europe over the rising cost of living, poor public services, and a lack of affordable housing.

The BBC's world correspondent Joe Inwood reports.

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Ukraine correspondent Dan Johnson explains the temporary ceasefire in the devastated town of Oleshky.

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People have been killed after a Spanish high-speed train collided with another train south of the capital Madrid, making this the country's worst disaster since 2013.

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The Russian-occupied city of Oleshky has had no electricity, gas or water for three years, as residents reported having to eat weeds to survive.

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The BBC's Europe correspondent reports from Paris where mostly peaceful protests turned into unrest after nightfall.

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Outside of Paris, Marseille saw some of the worst damage, with shop owners reporting more than 600 premises having been looted.

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