The “Gen Z” protests were overwhelming. Thousands of young people danced, singing, and whistling in protest against the planned tax increases – including DSN graduates among the demonstrators. The demonstrations ended in violence and the images were shocking. Why did the situation escalate? Will the protests continue? How should the government proceed? Class 8 discussed these questions with the Swiss journalist Samuel Misteli from the “Neue Zürcher Zeitung” and the German “Spiegel” correspondent Heiner Hoffmann, who both reported on the events on Tuesday evening. They provided information about the background of the protests and discussed what could happen next. They also talked about their work as journalists and the difficulties in such situations. The rather long NZZ article, for example, was sent to the Swiss editorial team in chunks as WhatsApp messages due to internet difficulties.
Luca, who took part in the demonstration together with other DSN students, also joined in. Luca gave a very differentiated explanation of why he took to the streets. He was impressed by how the other demonstrators were still able to express their anger by singing and dancing. Certainly, the class was particularly moved by how Luca described the use of tear gas and the actions of the police.
Even though many questions were clarified or at least discussed during the talks, there was a certain sense of helplessness at the end as to how the current government and Gen Z can shape the future together.
Dr. Vorein
Teacher