'Our future is being robbed': Greta Thunberg joins France student protests

Paris: Swedish activist Greta Thunberg joined French high school students advocating for improved learning conditions on Tuesday, just before more nationwide protests. The 23-year-old, known for her school strikes demanding climate action, rallied with students outside a school in Saint-Denis, the capital's largest suburb. Thunberg expressed concern that young people are not being included in discussions about their future. Authorities and participants remain cautious of potential violence as protests continue.

The movement, backed by unions and the far-left opposition party France Unbowed, plans a midday march through Paris and additional demonstrations in other cities. University students organized the movement, claiming authorities aren't listening and calling for confrontation. Over 70,000 people participated in the last major event last Thursday. Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported around 200 schools closed, fewer than the previous week, with some routes near protests temporarily closed to prevent damage.

Students are protesting various issues, including teacher shortages, deteriorating buildings, overcrowded classes, and more. Similar protests in Marseille featured students blocking school entrances and pushing dumpsters in front of high schools. While mostly peaceful, clashes with police have occurred. Eight teaching staff were injured on Monday across Paris and other cities.

Protesters have demanded a €10 billion (US$11 billion) investment in French high schools. President Emmanuel Macron urged restraint, emphasizing the need for consultation and respect in addressing these issues. Over 6,800 people have been placed in police custody, and 24 brutality allegations are under internal investigation.