Bundesschülerkonferenz plans independent protest on November 20 in Berlin

The Bundesschülerkonferenz, a major student body in Germany, has announced plans for an independent demonstration in Berlin on November 20. This move follows their decision to distance themselves from upcoming protests organized by the group 'Gen Z regelt'. The student conference aims to involve teachers and youth movements, with participation already confirmed by the Education and Science Union (GEW), the Federal Parents' Council, and Fridays for Future.

Amy Kirchhoff, the secretary general of the Bundesschülerkonferenz, shared details of the event during an interview with the morning show 'Frühstart' broadcast on RTL and n-tv. She indicated that the student body intends to collaborate with a civil society alliance, adding that additional organizations have been invited to join. While Berlin is set as the primary location, the possibility of protests occurring in other cities has not been ruled out.

Kirchhoff highlighted the frustration felt by today's youth towards what she described as a lack of engagement by decision-makers. She expressed concerns over issues such as pension and social security, job market challenges, and deteriorating school conditions. According to Kirchhoff, many young people have lost faith that their future will be better than that of previous generations, citing crumbling infrastructure in educational institutions as a particular point of contention.

The decision to hold a separate demonstration stems from concerns over potential violent outbreaks, which Kirchhoff addressed regarding the protests organized by 'Gen Z regelt'. Despite their stated opposition to violence, recent protests in France and other parts of Europe have seen riots, sparking fears of similar disruptions in Germany. Kirchhoff cautioned against relying on unclear organizational structures and emphasized the need for peaceful dialogue instead of violence.

In a separate development, trade associations in Germany have voiced their apprehensions about the effects of the planned protests on local commerce. They expressed concerns in a letter to Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt, warning of disruptions to businesses and the possibility of vandalism or looting, particularly targeting retail stores and shopping centers. The letter highlighted the risks posed by potentially violent actors seeking to exploit peaceful demonstrations for their purposes.

The letter, which was sealed last week and has been seen by the German Press Agency dpa, was signed by the German Retail Federation (HDE), the Central Real Estate Committee (ZIA), and the German Council of Shopping Centers (GCSP). The authors pointed to recent incidents in France as evidence of the potential for similar occurrences in Germany, emphasizing the need for vigilance and security measures.

Kirchhoff reiterated the call for older generations to take responsibility, listen to young people, and implement their desired changes. She acknowledged the underlying frustrations driving the protests, which focus on increased investment in education and sustainable practices. Kirchhoff remained firm on supporting peaceful protests aimed at fostering constructive discussions on these pressing issues.

Source: spiegel.de