The key facts

  • At least two people detained during the march in Hamburg, one with a replica weapon; no data yet on motives or injuries
  • Police used tear gas and pepper spray; drones and water cannons were deployed
  • In Stuttgart, reports of pyrotechnics fired at police and vandalism; at least 3,000 people took part there

Detentions and use of special means in Hamburg

On Saturday afternoon, a youth rally took place in Hamburg in which, according to police, more than 10,000 people took part. As Anadolu reports, citing the police,, during the march through the upscale Jungfernstieg district at least two people were detained: one of them, apparently, was carrying a replica firearm. Police officers detained both men. There was no information about injuries or the motives of those detained at the time of publication.

Large-scale police operation and the demonstrators' demands

Police had prepared in advance for large-scale events after the announcement of nationwide youth protests: in Hamburg, drones and water cannons were used, and tear gas and pepper spray were deployed to disperse demonstrators. The 'Gen Z Takes Charge' initiative called for protests across Germany. The demonstrators demand increased funding for the school system, consistent climate protection, measures against the rising cost of living, and they also oppose the introduction of compulsory military service.

Stuttgart: pyrotechnics and vandalism

In the southern German city of Stuttgart, police reported that pyrotechnics were apparently fired at police officers from within the column of demonstrators. There were also isolated acts of vandalism along the route — graffiti and set fire to garbage bins, which officers extinguished. Earlier, the march was halted several times due to masked participants and pyrotechnics; according to police, at least 3,000 people took part in the rally, some of them wearing masks.