Protest against austerity and joblessness

"Blocked generation drags parents and grandparents to the street", headlines Público after a demonstration Saturday 12 March that brought together people of all ages and of various political stripes protesting against precariousness and unemployment. Initially launched on Facebook by four young people, then joined by anarchist, nationalist, unions and non-partisan movements alike - simultaneous marches in Lisbon, Porto and other Portuguese cities saw a 300,000 turnout, according to non-official estimates. The demonstrations have occurred at a decisive moment for Portugal, the Lisbon daily notes, as it awaits financial help from the EU to balance its deficit. On Friday 11 March, the government announced a new package of austerity measures, some directly affecting pensioners, which could unleash a political crisis in the country.