Why have France’s school protests become a wider political crisis?

Violent unrest gripped France on Saturday as demonstrators against school and living cost hardships erupted into clashes, looting, and arson. Authorities arrested over 1,200 individuals amid an estimated 550,000 protesters taking to the streets nationwide. In Paris, intense confrontations erupted between riot police and crowds, who were met with tear gas and water cannon from authorities.

Buildings, including the Limoges town hall, were set ablaze, with the roof partially collapsing. Looting and vandalism were reported across various cities, with city halls and businesses targeted. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu reported 150 injured police officers during the unrest. The main protest in the capital concluded peacefully in the afternoon, though a group of young participants claimed to be "pacifists" seeking change.

The demonstrations, which have persisted for weeks, are driven primarily by students frustrated with staff shortages and deteriorating conditions in secondary schools, known as lycées, as well as union members and other protest organizations.