Demonstrations backing France’s protesting students gather strength

Paris: Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets across France on Tuesday, rallying in support of protesting high school students demanding improved school conditions. According to the interior ministry, around 161,500 people participated in the rallies, more than double the previous estimate of 71,500. Most demonstrations were peaceful, but violence erupted during clashes in Paris, where some cars were set ablaze and tear gas was deployed.

Swedish activist Greta Thunberg joined a demonstration in Saint-Denis, voicing her concerns about the future of their generation. French unions reported that 480,000 people took part in the rallies, signaling growing street opposition to President Emmanuel Macron's government as he nears the end of his second term. The protests come amid a debate in parliament on a budget aimed at cost-cutting, which has faced opposition from both left and right parties, while France's mounting debt has affected the bond market.

The student movement gained momentum last month with students blocking school entrances to demand better classroom conditions. They have received backing from the far-left opposition party, France Unbowed (LFI), and thousands marched in various cities, including Nantes, Lyon, Strasbourg, and Marseille. Students expressed their solidarity with struggling high schools and called for genuine dialogue rather than repression.

Some students even sustained injuries, including loss of limbs and eyesight, during the protests. The French education ministry reported that 214 schools, mainly high schools, were closed on Tuesday, and 90% of universities nationwide were shut to show support. Despite government promises to send 3,000 substitute teachers to the most affected schools, students continue to block them, refusing to back down from their demands.