From Seattletimes · · 1m 10s
Mélenchon Cheers Gen Z Protests
French far-left candidate supports student protests and calls for voting age drop to 16.
In brief
French far-left candidate supports student protests and calls for voting age drop to 16. Jean-Luc Mélenchon praised Gen Z school protests and proposed lowering voting age to 16 in France. Originally reported by Seattletimes.
Mélenchon Celebrates Student Protests
French far-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon celebrated high school students protesting deteriorating school buildings and teacher shortages.
“a high level of political and union maturity”
Proposes Voting Age Drop to 16
Mélenchon called for lowering the voting age to 16 and ending selective university admissions to address student grievances.
“knowledge shouldn’t be turned into merchandise”
Critics Say He Fuels Protests
Mélenchon’s critics claim his France Unbowed party is fueling the protests for electoral gain, but he insists it is not organizing them.
Over 6,600 Arrests in Protests
Police have made more than 6,600 arrests during the nationwide high school protest movement, with hundreds injured.
Mélenchon Targets Trump and NATO
Mélenchon denounced U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO, calling for France to lead an independent foreign policy.
“We’re not preparing our children and grandchildren to die for some hazardous operation concocted by NATO”
Protests Push Government Action
The government ordered urgent teacher hires and schedule changes to address student grievances, but protesters say it is insufficient.
Here's the gist
Jean-Luc Mélenchon praised Gen Z school protests and proposed lowering voting age to 16 in France.
