More than 400 Detained as France Student Protests Escalate
On Tuesday, French authorities moved into high schools across the country, arresting more than 400 students and staff, many of whom were under 18, in a wave of protests that have been brewing over overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages.
The demonstrations began in Paris and spread to other regions, with students blocking entrances to schools, lighting bins, and even setting fire to furniture. Reports say that at least 10 teachers, several students, and 48 police officers were injured.
“We’re here to deliver a message,” said a 16‑year‑old girl captured on camera, “We’re not here to smash everything up for no reason. The education system is broken. There are 34 of us in each class, and it’s just not feasible.”
French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez said police operated in a "proportionate" manner after a police statement blamed students for “indefensible” violence, saying that up to 440 were detained, roughly two‑thirds taken into custody.
Education Minister Édouard Geffray, who posted on X, acknowledged students’ right to protest but condemned violent incidents, warning that extending blockades endangers both students and public servants.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu criticised any escalation, stating that fireworks, fires and police confrontations “are justifiable.” He added that the protests are largely coordinated with nationwide unions calling for better wages and conditions.
The protests are part of a growing wave of social unrest in France, with union‑led walkouts also on the move for healthcare and civil service workers.
The future of France’s high school system remains uncertain as government officials promise reforms, while the student movement demands a fundamental overhaul of the education infrastructure.
