Europe's autumn of discontent: what's fueling the protests?

Protests are sweeping across Europe this autumn, from Albania to Spain, driven by a wave of public anger over issues including housing costs, education, and government policies. While largely unconnected, the demonstrations share common frustrations, with young people at the forefront of the unrest. In France, student protests over teacher shortages merged with calls for a revival of the yellow vest movement, leading to riots and looting in Paris. Italy has seen similar violence, prompting a sweeping emergency security decree, while Spain's housing crisis has sparked widespread demonstrations and a snap election. Albania is experiencing a youth-led revolt against alleged government corruption. The unrest has prompted strong government responses, including curfews in France and the deployment of army troops in Milan. Further protests are planned across the continent, with French unions calling for a major strike in November and Italian groups organizing weekly demonstrations.