Paris police chief Patrice For has warned that student protests sweeping across France have become "out of control" and urged protesters to return to peaceful methods. For expressed concern that the protests, which began over class sizes and funding, have turned violent and destructive. He called on students to abandon school closures and rioting and adopt peaceful forms of protest.
Clashes between police and high school students broke out across France on Friday, with riot police deployed to quell the unrest. The protests have been sparked by concerns over overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of teachers, and deteriorating school facilities. The protests have resulted in the arrest of nearly 5,000 people, mostly teenagers, and dozens injured since Monday.
According to Agathe Faure, spokesperson for the national police, over 600 police officers have also been injured in the clashes. The protests have caused significant damage to property, estimated to be in the tens of millions of euros. Teachers and citizens have also been attacked, and there are concerns that the protests could escalate into further violence.
The student protests have been organized in response to what students describe as a lack of investment in education over several years. The protests have been marked by the erection of barricades outside high schools, with students expressing anger over the government's handling of education. The government of President Emmanuel Macron has struggled to contain the protests, which have become increasingly violent.
For has called on parents to take responsibility for keeping their children away from what he described as the influence of "professional troublemakers" and their supporters. He urged students to return to peaceful forms of protest, warning that the authorities would respond firmly to acts of violence and vandalism.
Student unions have called for a national day of protests on Tuesday, which has raised concerns among security officials that the demonstrations could lead to further violence. There are fears that extremist left-wing groups could take control of the protests, particularly in central Paris. The government is working to prevent this and maintain order.
The protests have highlighted the challenges facing the French education system, including overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages, and inadequate facilities. The government has faced criticism for its handling of the education sector, with many calling for increased investment to address these issues. The protests are set to continue, with students determined to make their voices heard.
Key points
- The protests have resulted in nearly 5,000 arrests and dozens injured since Monday.
- Over 600 police officers have been injured in the clashes.
- The protests have caused significant damage to property, estimated to be in the tens of millions of euros.
