Tensions across France’s education system have reached a boiling point as riot police fired tear gas during widespread school protests, while scrutiny over police tactics intensified following serious injuries to students.
Thousands of students, teachers and parents took to the streets on Tuesday, October 6, demanding improved school conditions, more teachers and increased investment in public education. Demonstrations were reported in Paris, Marseille, Nantes, Lyon, Strasbourg and several other cities.
What began in disadvantaged areas around Paris in September has rapidly developed into a nationwide movement. Students have complained about overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating school buildings, teacher shortages and long school days.
While many demonstrations remained peaceful, clashes erupted in several locations. Protesters reportedly built barricades, set fires and threw objects at officers, prompting police to respond with tear gas and other riot-control measures.
Anger has also grown over injuries involving young demonstrators.
In Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône, a 14-year-old student reportedly suffered a double jaw fracture after being struck by a tear-gas projectile allegedly fired at close range. Another teenager in Tours reportedly lost sight in one eye after being struck by a projectile. Investigations have been opened into allegations of improper police conduct.
The unrest became even more alarming after a 15-year-old boy in Lens lost his hand following an explosion involving a police stun grenade during clashes on October 5. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
More than 6,100 people have reportedly been arrested since the demonstrations began, with many of those detained being minors. Hundreds of students and police officers have also been injured.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has ordered government ministers to develop proposals addressing students’ concerns, including teacher shortages, school repairs and changes to the school day.
But with protests continuing and accusations of excessive police force mounting, France now faces an escalating education crisis that has become one of the country’s largest youth-led protest movements in years.
