'Climate of discontent' led to French protests - minister

A French junior minister has revealed a growing climate of discontent among the public due to rising energy costs and the burden of living expenses. This discontent has sparked violent protests, with over a quarter of a million people taking to the streets in recent weeks. These demonstrations, led by students, have been fueled by underfunded schools, teacher shortages, and deteriorating classroom conditions.

The unrest has resulted in violent clashes with law enforcement, over 6,000 arrests, and accusations of excessive police force. The unrest has occurred just six months before a presidential election, in which Marine Le Pen's National Rally is currently leading the polls.

French Minister Delegate for Francophonie, International Partnerships, and French Nationals Abroad, Éléonore Caroit, has expressed her concern over the disturbing and heartbreaking images she has seen from the rioting. The government is investigating all actions and claims, and has instructed authorities to use proportionate measures to maintain order.

Caroit stated that the French government aims to restore peace and address the legitimate demands of the students. She further explained that the current situation is calming, and that the government is working diplomatically to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and mitigate the impact of the high diesel price on the country's finances.

Caroit emphasized that the government provides targeted assistance rather than general aid to counterbalance the higher costs, due to the previous budget constraints. She also expressed her hope that the next president will not be from the far-right National Rally party. Caroit addressed the public's intentions to vote for parties promising significant changes, stating that the far-right party's claims of saving €140bn are false, and that their only proposal is to stop all types of immigration.

The minister highlighted that France's legal immigration is essential for businesses and the economy, as it contributes to the functioning of hospitals, schools, and care for the elderly. She emphasized that while populist language on immigration may seem like a solution to some, it is evidently not the solution.