Student protests spread across France

Teenagers have blockaded schools for days across France, beginning in Paris and the Île-de-France region last week. Protests have now spread to Alpes-Maritimes, Var, Marseille, Lille and Sedan.

Students cite overcrowding and shortages

The Union Syndicale Lycéenne says protests stem from lack of teachers and staff, dilapidated schools, overcrowded schedules and classes, and stress caused by Parcoursup, the platform for university applications.

Monday's clashes leave dozens injured

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez reported that twelve members of security forces, twelve students and three school staff were injured on Monday. Police arrested one hundred sixty four people, affecting one hundred eighty schools.

Lecornu warns against further escalation

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said any escalation would be irresponsible, citing reported fireworks, fires and violence near high schools. He said violence must be condemned and perpetrators must answer for their actions.

“Fireworks, fires, violence near high schools: nothing justifies endangering students, staff, or police officers.”

Union defends protests as legitimate

The Union Syndicale Lycéenne called the protests a legitimate response to conditions, blaming ten years of Macron's policies and lack of resources in the national education system. It urged students to blockade schools on Tuesday.

Interior Minister rejects protest framing

Laurent Nuñez rejected characterising the demonstrations as typical protests, saying they resembled urban violence with masked individuals equipped with fireworks and projectiles who wanted to confront security forces, not make demands.

“It wasn't about making demands; it was really violence in its purest form.”