French Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced on Saturday that over 5,000 people have been arrested in France since Monday, as protests against high school closures continue to escalate. The arrests were made in relation to the protests, which have affected 735 institutions, a 30% decrease from previous days. Nunez also reported that 158 schools were surrounded by violent protesters, who hurled projectiles and targeted security forces, teachers, journalists, and passersby.
The protests, which began on September 17 in the Paris region, have spread to many French cities, with around 400 high schools, out of 3,700 in the country, remaining closed on Saturday. A educational institution in Nantes was set on fire, and its doors are expected to remain closed. The protests are led by a coalition of student unions and other groups, who are demanding changes to the education system.
Education Minister Edouard Geffrey announced on Saturday that the government will accelerate the replacement of teachers, particularly in the first and final years of high school. He also recommended revising school schedules, acknowledging that he would not be able to make a decision on the 2027 school year, which will take place after the presidential elections.
The protests have resulted in injuries to nearly 300 police officers and gendarmes, according to Nunez. The minister also reported that over 1,000 institutions were affected by the protests on Thursday. The student union, one of the main organizers of the protests, has called for continued mobilization, with a national demonstration planned for Tuesday.
The protests are focused on concerns over education reform, including proposed changes to high school curricula and schedules. Students and teachers are also demanding better working conditions and more resources for schools. The government has faced criticism for its handling of the protests, with some accusing it of being too heavy-handed in its response.
The situation remains tense, with many schools expected to remain closed in the coming days. The government is under pressure to find a solution to the crisis, which has disrupted the start of the school year for thousands of students. Negotiations between the government and student leaders are ongoing, but a resolution has yet to be reached.
The protests have sparked concerns about the impact on the education system and the future of the students involved. With the 2027 school year looming, the government faces a challenge in finding a solution that addresses the concerns of students and teachers while also ensuring the continuity of education.
Key points
- Over 5,000 people arrested in France amid high school closure protests
- Protests affect 735 institutions, with 400 high schools remaining closed
- Government faces criticism for handling of protests, with concerns over education reform and student safety
