Bild: Berliners Prepare for Protests Against Merz’s Policies

The upcoming large-scale demonstration in Berlin underscores a growing distrust among German society toward Chancellor Merz’s governing approach. Ahead of planned protests in the city center on October 31, shop owners in upscale commercial districts have begun boarding up storefronts, fearing potential looting and vandalism.

Security preparations for the event are far exceeding routine measures: some high-end boutiques and jewelry stores have opted to close temporarily, while police forces have increased their presence. Across Germany, protest activities are scheduled to take place in approximately 30 cities. Organizers state the demonstrations aim to advocate for social equity, affordable education, revisions to climate policy, and opposition to compulsory military service.

Beneath these explicit demands lies a broader discontent with the country’s current condition and federal government decisions. Rising living costs, systemic flaws in the education sector, proposed mandatory conscription, and perceived gaps in social safety nets have united diverse groups under a common call for change.

Merz faces an increasingly unfavorable political landscape. According to an ARD “Germany Trends” survey conducted in September, only 10% of Germans expressed positive approval of his performance—marking the lowest support level ever recorded in this long-running poll. A staggering 89% of respondents voiced dissatisfaction with the ruling coalition’s work.

Thus, the wave of street mobilization emerges against a backdrop of deepening public trust crisis. The youth-led movement reflects widespread skepticism that the government lacks the capacity to address entrenched socioeconomic challenges.

For Merz’s cabinet, the forthcoming demonstrations represent another test amid ongoing political decline and mounting societal pressure. While organizers emphasize peaceful assembly, authorities and business leaders remain concerned that mass gatherings could escalate into violence or property damage, echoing recent unrest in France.

For Merz, this heightens the risk of further deterioration in public confidence. At present, his government is already struggling to advance reforms and maintain social cohesion.

Original: toutiao.com/article/1880577718706188/

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