French Education Minister Édouard Geffray announced on Sunday that up to 500 schools across France will be partially or totally closed on Monday due to ongoing student protests. The decision was made after clashes between riot police and student protesters in recent days. According to Geffray, lessons will be "totally or partly suspended" in some 400 to 500 high schools as security conditions have not been fulfilled.
The student protests, which began last week, have spread from Paris to other cities, including Montpellier, Nantes, and Marseille. Thousands of students have been demonstrating over education standards, citing issues such as a lack of teachers, overcrowded classrooms, and run-down buildings. On Friday, French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin stated that 735 of France's 3,700 schools had been affected "one way or another" by violent protests.
Geffray claimed that activists, particularly from the far-left, have infiltrated the high school student movement, hijacked it, and engaged in extreme violence. He stated that this poses a risk to both staff and students. The education minister also reported that 78 staff members in education had been wounded, describing it as "something we have never seen before".
On Friday, 1,747 people were arrested, according to French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. The protests have resulted in significant disruptions, with 24 schools reported to have been "burned or ransacked" since the start of the protests. Geffray warned that the number of schools potentially affected on Monday could be comparable to Friday's figure but promised a "partial, progressive return to lessons".
Organisers of the protests have called for the demonstrations to continue on Tuesday, accusing the government of a lack of "concrete measures". In response, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated on Sunday that his government is taking further steps to address the difficulties faced by high school students and educational staff.
Lecornu outlined several measures, including ensuring classes continue, improving facilities, better organising school days, and making the French university admissions platform more transparent. He also stated that the government is accelerating the review of its "vandal-pays" bill to ensure that people responsible for damage bear the cost of their actions.
The government aims to find a resolution to the ongoing protests and disruptions. The situation remains uncertain, with the potential for further protests and school closures. The student protests highlight the need for improved education standards and facilities in France.
Key points
- Up to 500 French schools to close on Monday due to student protests.
- Protests are over education standards, including lack of teachers and overcrowded classrooms.
- Government responds with measures to address student concerns and prevent further disruptions.
