Student protests in France have escalated, with over 400 people, mostly minors, detained on Tuesday, according to French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez. The demonstrations, which began in Paris, have spread to high schools across the country, with students blockading their schools for days. The protests stem from issues including overcrowded classes and teacher shortages.
At least 10 teachers and several students, as well as 48 law enforcement officials, were injured during Tuesday's protests, officials said. According to the education ministry, at least 400 schools were affected. Pictures and videos appeared to show bins being set alight and bus stops damaged by protesters. A 16-year-old female student told the AFP news agency that the protests aimed to highlight the "completely broken" education system.
French Education Minister Édouard Geffray condemned reports of violence as "indefensible", while Interior Minister Nuñez said 440 people were detained, with two-thirds leading to police custody. French media reported that protesters hurled projectiles at police, who responded with batons and tear gas. The movement at French lycées began last week in the Île-de-France region around Paris.
Ryad Rani, president of Union Syndicale Lycéenne, which represents students, accused the French government of "repression" and police of using excessive force. When pressed on the police response, Nuñez said it had been "carried out in an extremely proportionate manner". Geffray emphasized that the right to demonstrate is a fundamental freedom, but it cannot serve as an excuse for violent actions.
The continuing student demonstrations on Tuesday coincided with nationwide walkouts by unions representing teachers, hospital staff, and civil servants to protest against issues including low wages and working conditions. Nuñez said these protests, with at least 200,000 participants reported, mostly went without incident. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu warned any escalation in the student protests would be "irresponsible" following the arrest of 164 people.
Lecornu cited reported incidents at protests, saying "Fireworks, fires, violence near high schools: nothing justifies endangering students, staff, or police officers." The protests have sparked concerns about the safety of students and staff. Geffray urged students not to legitimize violent actions, warning that it could endanger students and public employees.
The student protests and union walkouts highlight the growing discontent among students and workers in France. The government faces pressure to address issues including overcrowded classes, teacher shortages, low wages, and working conditions. The situation remains uncertain, with protests expected to continue in the coming days.
Key points
- Over 400 people, mostly minors, were detained in France on Tuesday amid escalating student protests.
- The protests, which began in Paris, have spread to high schools across the country, with students blockading their schools for days.
- At least 10 teachers and several students, as well as 48 law enforcement officials, were injured during Tuesday's protests.
