Protests Sweep Europe Amidst Gaza Conflict and Cost of Living Concerns
Demonstrations, ranging from calls for a Gaza ceasefire to anti-government sentiment, occurred in Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Serbia, and Albania.
Demonstrators, some waving Palestinian flags, entered Rome's Colosseum on Saturday, demanding an end to the war in Gaza. Security guards eventually removed the protesters from the ancient site. Similar demonstrations occurred across Europe, with some cities experiencing clashes with police and instances of looting.
In Italy, luxury stores in Milan, including Versace, fortified their storefronts in anticipation of potential unrest. In Turin, protesters demonstrating against the rising cost of living clashed with riot police.
France has seen widespread protests, with 400,000 people marching in major cities over the weekend. Originally initiated by students concerned about education quality, these demonstrations have been co-opted by left-wing organizations, leading to violent confrontations with police. Over the weekend, 1,314 arrests were made in France, with 53 officers injured, 75 fires started, and 24 shops looted.
In Spain, Barcelona saw 128 overnight arrests, 72 of which involved minors, for vandalism and looting. Spanish newspaper El Pais reported that 23 businesses were looted and 33 fires were set after mobilization through TikTok.
Portugal experienced police clearing protest camps set up against high housing prices. Organizers criticized the police response. Approximately 11 people were injured, including three officers, and 171 structures were dismantled.
Serbia is preparing for a closely contested parliamentary election, with a student-led movement working to unseat the ruling party. The protests were initially sparked by a tragedy at a Novi Sad railway station in 2024, which killed 16 people and was widely attributed to corruption. The Students' List, a coalition of candidates backed by the movement, is challenging the Serbian Progressive Party.
Albania has also experienced significant anti-government protests. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced plans for a tougher stance, including new fines for violent demonstrations. A proposed law would impose fines exceeding $550 for remaining in a crowd engaged in violence or looting, or for concealing identity. The law would also grant police powers to restrict gatherings if there is a risk of violence. Rama stated that while protesters' demands may not be entirely wrong, his resignation cannot be forced.
Months of protests in Albania have recently escalated into clashes between security forces and demonstrators who have attacked government buildings, citing corruption and demanding better student conditions and Rama's resignation. Police reported 23 arrests and 13 individuals facing legal proceedings after recent demonstrations.