Large demonstrations take place across several European countries as people protest rising living costs and pressures on public services. Multiple outlets report marches in France, Belgium, Italy and Portugal, with participation reaching into the hundreds of thousands.
In France, turnout is described as particularly high, with figures above 550,000 people attending a march calling for better public services. Protesters cite stagnant wages and affordability concerns, including housing and other basic expenses such as education costs. In Lisbon, Portugal, tens of thousands march specifically over housing and the broader cost-of-living crisis.
Across countries, the protests are organized separately but share similar themes, putting pressure on governments within the EU. Outlets also note that protests extend beyond the larger EU states, with smaller actions reported in Belgium and other mass protests occurring in places such as Albania, reflecting wider public anger at economic strain.
