France is preparing for a new wave of student protests on Tuesday, with students seeking to improve educational conditions. The protests come as some schools remain closed, and others experience disruptions. The movement, which began in mid-September, has been gaining momentum, with students hoping to maintain the pressure on the government. The authorities, however, believe the movement may be starting to subside.
According to the Education Ministry, over 96% of high schools were open on Friday, indicating a significant decrease in the number of schools affected by the protests. However, 130 institutions were closed on Monday, and 172 on Friday. The ministry reported that despite the decline in school closures, violence is escalating, with at least eight education workers injured on Monday.
A shooting incident occurred on Monday in Aubagne, near Marseille, where a teenager injured a middle school principal and a teacher with a hunting rifle. The incident is being investigated, and authorities have not confirmed any link to the student protests. Education Minister Edouard Geirard and Interior Minister Laurent Nunez are expected to visit the scene.
President Emmanuel Macron has called for calm and orderly protests, respecting people and property. He praised the "exemplary reaction" of the educational team, which "allowed the worst to be avoided." Macron rarely comments on the student movement, which has spread across France since mid-September.
The student movement has gained significant public support, with 54% of respondents in a recent Ipsos-BPI survey backing the protests. The protesters are demanding improvements in educational conditions, including reduced class sizes and school renovations. The movement has also sparked concerns about police practices, with 18 internal investigations launched into allegations against police officers.
The government has attempted to respond to student demands, with Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu promising additional resources for schools in the 2027 budget. However, student organizations have deemed the government's proposals insufficient. The protests have resulted in significant damage, estimated to be over €30 million, and over 6,800 arrests since the movement began.
The student protests have drawn parallels with the 2018 "Yellow Vest" movement, which saw widespread demonstrations and clashes with police over fuel price hikes. With protests planned for next Saturday, authorities are working to contain the situation and prevent further disruptions. The outcome of the protests and the government's response will likely determine the future of the movement.
Key points
- The protests are demanding improvements in educational conditions, including reduced class sizes and school renovations.
- The government has attempted to respond to student demands, but the proposals have been deemed insufficient by student organizations.
- The protests have resulted in significant damage and arrests, with concerns about police practices and the impact on students.
