Thousands protested in Berlin against high energy prices and the rising cost of living.

A total of three protests took place in the German capital, the largest of which was in front of the parliament building, where more than 10,000 people gathered.

They urged the authorities to take urgent measures.

Germany's upper house of parliament approved an energy package and cut the gas tax

Against this background, the state of Lower Saxony is holding elections for a local parliament.

More than 6 million voters have the right to vote.

The vote is seen as a test of Chancellor Olaf Scholz, whose government faces the threat of a recession in Germany next year.

increase in the cost of living

civil protests