School protests sweeping France cause 'heaviest toll in decades'

On Tuesday, demonstrations erupted across France, with students, teachers, and parents marching alongside high school pupils. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu labeled these events as the most violent student protests in decades. Authorities in cities like Paris, Strasbourg, Rennes, and Toulouse employed tear gas and water cannons to control unruly factions during the marches. Over 250,000 individuals participated across dozens of cities according to the interior ministry, although organizers claimed 450,000 attended.

The protests, marked by tragic violence, saw a teenager lose a hand on Monday. This serves as the latest manifestation of widespread public discontent in France. Support for far-right and far-left populist parties is on the rise, especially ahead of the presidential election in the spring. The government is under intense pressure to address issues such as excessive public debt and weak economic growth.

Moreover, the Macron administration has faced numerous challenges, including struggles to pass a budget since his allies lost their parliamentary majority in the 2024 elections.

Lecornu informed lawmakers that at least 215 teenagers and 85 school staff members had been affected by the demonstrations.