In brief
In a wave of demonstrations that began in Paris last week, students across France have closed more than 560 schools and clashed with riot police. Over 65 staff members have been injured and more than 2,000 youngsters taken into custody. Teenagers cite long hours, overcrowded classrooms and lack of teachers while demanding better funding before the 2027 presidential election. Unions claim the movement risks being hijacked by outsiders, but back the protesters’ right to assembly, demanding a peaceful resolution that protects both students and school property.
Unprecedented Scale of Student Protest Across France
The movement that began with a handful of students in Paris last week now touches every corner of France. Over 560 schools from Montpellier to Marseille have been closed, making waves across the nation’s education system.
Students have staged fire‑cracked barricades, flung fireworks at police, and set litter bins ablaze, with police responding in riot gear and tear gas. A 17‑year‑old was arrested in Belfort on suspicion of attempted homicide after targeting an officer.
"We banned him from coming. I hope he isn’t here, but he did leave the house," a parent told AFP. The Ministry of Education confirmed at least 65 staff injuries and estimated damages, with the Nelson Mandela high school in Nantes recording over €2m in losses.
Despite the chaos, unions—SNEP‑FSU, SNUEP‑FSU and Solidaires—called for solidarity with students, insisting that “secondary school pupils have the right of assembly, association and demonstration.”
Government Response and Future Concerns
Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin described the situation as an “uncontrolled public order disturbance.” He urged prosecutors to hold parents liable for their children’s damage and noted that roughly 2,000 minors have been detained to date.
With France’s presidential election just six months away, the protests risk becoming a pivotal issue, as budgets for education are slated for cuts that would deepen students’ grievances.
