Student protests erupt across France
On Tuesday, Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that more than 400 students – mostly minors – had been detained when high‑school blockades spread across the country.
The demonstrations, which began in Paris, were sparked by complaints of overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages. Students set fire to bins and blocked entrances, creating a tense atmosphere that drew police forces equipped with batons and tear gas.
Official reports say at least 10 teachers, several students and 48 officers were injured. The French interior and education ministries called the violence "indefensible", while student leaders argue the government is ignoring systemic problems.
French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu warned against escalation after 164 arrests, noting that "fireworks, fires, violence near high schools: nothing justifies endangering students, staff, or police officers." The protests coincide with nationwide union walkouts over low wages and poor working conditions.
“We’re not here to smash everything up for no reason… We’re here precisely to say that the education system is completely broken. There are 34 of us in each class, and it’s just not feasible. The teachers are overworked.” – 16‑year‑old student
With more than 200,000 participants in related union demonstrations nationwide, the situation remains tense. Leaders on both sides insist that the right to protest must not be used to justify violence, and the future of French schools hangs in the balance as both sides demand change.
