CNA Explains: What are the grievances driving the expanding school protests in France?

France has temporarily halted the use of stun grenades by police during student-led demonstrations, following allegations of police brutality in a series of violent protests across the country. A 15-year-old student lost his hand after being hit by a stun grenade earlier this week. Thousands of individuals protested for improved conditions in secondary schools, with President Emmanuel Macron meeting with key ministers to address the crisis.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez suspended the use of stun grenades at secondary school protests until the facts surrounding the incident are clarified. This measure is limited to secondary school demonstrations and is intended for a short period to investigate the circumstances. Last week, a 14-year-old student suffered severe injuries to his face from tear gas at close range, resulting in the loss of several teeth.

A policeman faced charges in relation to that incident. Since the protests began, police have launched 18 internal investigations into allegations of misconduct. Manuel Bompard, a coordinator of the hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) group, criticized the government's decision, stating that it took the maiming of several children for Nunez to withdraw the use of stun grenades against secondary school students.

The protests initially began in late September, with students blocking school entrances to voice concerns over dilapidated facilities and teacher shortages. While most schools reopened, over 500 remained partially closed, with students blocking doors using rubbish bins. Over 488 people were arrested, and 43 security force members were injured during the demonstrations.

Most protests were peaceful, but sporadic clashes occurred with protesters throwing objects and security forces using tear gas. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu announced a half-day of class time for internal democratic dialogue, aimed at giving students and staff a platform to express their concerns. However, student union leader Ryad Rani dismissed the effort as an attempt to silence the debate and gain time.

Hundreds of people have been injured in the school protests, which have seen more than 6,500 arrests, with at least 215 students and 715 police officers injured. The government has reported that 85 teaching staff have also been injured.