In a nationwide walk‑out, students across France shut more than 560 schools last Friday, demanding better classrooms and more teachers. The protests, starting in Paris last week, have spread to cities like Montpellier, Nantes and Marseille.
The protests turned violent when riot police moved in. Fireworks detonated, fire‑cracked barricades appeared, and tear gas laced the air of Strasbourg. In Paris suburb Pantin, police charged, and in Belgort, a 17‑year‑old was arrested on suspicion of attempted homicide. At least 65 staff members were injured, and a Nantes high school suffered over €2 million in damage.
Students say classroom hours are too long, the buildings are hot, and many teachers have to work from home. “We banned him from coming. I hope he isn’t here,” a 16‑year‑old protester told AFP, while police claim they are only responding to unsafe conditions.
French justice minister Gérald Darmanin urged parents to be held liable for damages, and said about 2,000 people—most minors—were arrested since the start of the protests. Trade unions, including SNEP‑FSU and Solidaires, back the students and warned against firing on kids.
The protests come just six months before France’s next presidential election, putting President Emmanuel Macron’s education policies under scrutiny. With budgets tightening, the students’ demands hit a politically sensitive spot.
