Gen Z Protests Spread Across Europe, India

Gen Z activism is gaining visibility across several countries, with young people protesting economic hardship, inadequate public services, unemployment and limited opportunity. In Europe, demonstrations and strikes—sometimes marked by clashes and property damage—have focused on living costs, education, housing and social services, while some activists also oppose compulsory military service. In India, a youth-led movement rallied under the satirical Cockroach People’s Party banner, channeling frustration over unemployment and poor social mobility; one analyst said social media helped crystallize demands that established parties had not voiced. Pakistan offers a contrast: despite frequent demonstrations and widespread youth grievances, one analysis argues that young people remain divided by family, party and other loyalties rather than united as a distinct movement, while India’s large Gen Z population could also become an influential voting bloc in 2029.