French authorities investigate child abuse allegations in schools

Paris prosecutors are investigating over 100 allegations of physical abuse, sexual assault, and rape targeting children as young as three years old in educational facilities. The probe encompasses 84 nursery schools, approximately 20 primary schools, and 10 childcare centers. Alleged incidents reportedly occurred during lunch breaks, nap times, and afternoon activities. Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau confirmed that investigations are ongoing into the actions of school supervisors. Attorneys representing affected families, including Florian Lastelle, have described the situation as a massive scandal and a failure of the state to guarantee child safety. Criticism centers on hiring processes for school supervisors, who are employed by local municipalities rather than directly by the Ministry of Education, often lacking specialized training. Parents and advocacy groups claim that warnings about these systemic issues were ignored by authorities for years.