Riot Police Clash With Students as Education Protests Disrupt Over 700 French Schools
Riot police have clashed with protesters across France as thousands of students demonstrating over education standards disrupted more than 700 schools. High school pupils and other demonstrators have set fires in the streets to protest a lack of teachers, overcrowded classrooms, and run-down facilities. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that 1,747 people were arrested on Friday.
The protests, which began last week in Paris, have spread nationwide to cities including Montpellier, Nantes, and Marseille. French Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin stated that the situation has transitioned from high-school student demonstrations to a public order disturbance. According to Darmanin, 735 of France's 3,700 schools have been affected in some manner by the violent protests.
Government Cites Escalating Urban Violence
Speaking on France's TF1 television network late on Friday, Nuñez warned that the demonstrations are sliding into riot and urban violence, prompting authorities to use all intermediate means to restore order. Meanwhile, Education Minister Édouard Geffray told broadcaster BFMTV that the movement has been hijacked by non-students, noting that teachers reported facing individuals who were not their own students.
The unrest has resulted in injuries to at least 65 staff members, according to the education ministry. In Belfort, located in north-eastern France, a 17-year-old was arrested on suspicion of attempted homicide following an attack on a police officer. BBC Verify authenticated two videos showing the officer being chased, falling to the ground, and being repeatedly punched and kicked in the head by a group of young men.
Clashes and Property Damage Reported Nationwide
Clashes have been reported in multiple regions. In the Paris suburb of Pantin, police charged at protesters and made arrests after projectiles were thrown at officers. In Strasbourg, police deployed tear gas due to fears of worsening conditions, while rubbish bins were set on fire in Rennes and Paris. Police have seized various items from demonstrators, including petrol bombs, an axe, and mortar fireworks.
The education ministry reported significant damage to school facilities, including attacks on gates, entrances, and fences. In Nantes, the Nelson Mandela high school suffered more than €2 million (£1.7 million) in damage after a fire destroyed its glass entrance and damaged interior areas, according to the regional government.
Student Grievances and Political Context
Protesting students argue that school hours are too long, classrooms are too hot, and too many staff members are absent. The unrest occurs six months before next year's presidential election, presenting a challenge for French President Emmanuel Macron. Planned budget cuts affecting education funding have further fueled the anger of young protesters.
Lola, a 16-year-old protester, told the AFP news agency that police actions have exacerbated the situation, stating that the use of tear gas and force has made demonstrators angrier. Conversely, parents have expressed concern over their children's safety. In southern Paris, a parent named Anya expressed fear that the situation might escalate after banning her son from attending.
In response to the property damage, Darmanin announced that prosecutors have been asked to hold parents liable for damage caused by their children and compel them to pay for repairs. However, several French unions, including SNEP-FSU, SNUEP-FSU, and the Solidaires Trade Union Federation, have expressed support for the students, defending their freedom of assembly, association, and demonstration.
