Protests over the cost of living, housing, education and government policies are likely to persist across Europe in the coming weeks, with France and Spain facing heightened risks of protester turnout. While disruption is likely to remain localized and temporary in most countries, an escalation into sustained unrest could disrupt businesses and supply chains, with broader implications for investment and economic growth. On Oct. 17-18, demonstrations over the cost of living, education, housing and government policy took place in Albania, Belgium, France, Italy and Portugal, while ongoing housing protests continued in Spain. In France, the Interior Ministry reported approximately 550,000 participants on Oct. 17, while the General Confederation of Labor put the figure at 800,000. Demonstrations in numerous French cities escalated into clashes with the police, fires, looting and arrests.