Hundreds arrested in school protests as Macron summons ministers
PARIS: Mass protests over decrepit conditions at France’s high schools descended into sporadic violence Tuesday, leading to nearly 500 arrests and prompting President Emmanuel Macron to call an emergency meeting. The protests started in late September with students blocking entrances to hundreds of high schools for 15- to 17-year-olds over complaints of dilapidated facilities and teacher…
Hundreds were arrested during school protests in France over poor conditions, prompting President Emmanuel Macron to summon ministers. The unrest began in late September with students blocking entrances to hundreds of high schools due to dilapidated facilities and teacher shortages. The interior ministry reported 256,000 nationwide protests, while unions estimated 450,000 participants.
Nearly 488 people were arrested, and 43 security force members were wounded on Tuesday. Rights groups and unions accused authorities of using excessive force, citing injuries like a teenager losing a hand from a stun grenade. Despite some violent incidents, a 16-year-old student stated his group felt ignored until violence erupted.
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu condemned the violence, emphasizing that burning schools does not solve problems. High schools will be closed for a half-day between Wednesday and Friday for "internal democracy." The unrest precedes a 2027 election where far-right candidate Marine Le Pen is polling well, despite a corruption conviction.
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