Schools shut as violent protest breaks out in France
At least 400 high schools have been closed across France as student protests over poor learning conditions, teacher shortages and overcrowded classrooms. The protests, which began in the Paris region last week, escalated into violent clashes with police. Across France, students have been blocking school entrances, setting fires and confronting security forces. France has about […]
Across France, at least 400 high schools have been forced to close due to student protests over subpar learning conditions, a scarcity of educators, and overcrowded classrooms. The demonstrations, which started in the Paris area last week, have taken a violent turn, with clashes erupting between students and law enforcement.
Students have taken drastic measures to express their dissatisfaction, including blocking school entrances, setting fires, and confronting security personnel. France, home to approximately 3,700 high schools, is now grappling with the fallout from the unrest.
Education Minister Édouard Geffray emphasized the need to prioritize student safety as the violence escalated. "What matters now is ensuring our children are no longer out on the streets, because they are in danger," he stated. Geffray urged parents to keep their children away from the blockades, warning of the risks associated with the unrest.
Kesia, a 15-year-old student, revealed to Reuters that her school had 35 students in a single class and insufficient seating. Lunch periods were also deemed inadequate, with not enough time allocated for all students to consume their meals.
The protests have intensified in various cities, with reports of fires damaging the entrances of two high schools in Paris. Police responded with tear gas during confrontations in Strasbourg, Marseille, and Rennes. Since the protests began, at least 170 students and 65 education workers, including 40 school principals, have been injured. Over 100 high schools have suffered significant damage.
Geffray alleged that the student movement had been hijacked by ultra-violent groups. "The high school protest movement has been taken hostage by ultra-violent groups," he asserted, according to Le Monde. The government has convened additional discussions with teachers' unions, student organizations, and parents' representatives to address the underlying concerns driving the protests.
The unrest has also put pressure on President Emmanuel Macron's administration, which is already facing broader disputes over its budget proposals. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin reported that approximately 2,000 individuals, predominantly children, have been detained so far.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Trust's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
