Widespread school closures and protests across France

Between 400 and 500 French high schools face partial or full closures this Monday, October 5, 2026, due to ongoing student protests. Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported that these closures are necessary for safety reasons, as the movement, which began in a Paris suburb in late September, has expanded nationwide. Students are protesting against teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and poor building conditions, including issues with overheating during recent heatwaves. The unrest has resulted in significant damage, with 24 schools being burned or ransacked and 78 staff members injured.

The demonstrations coincide with a tense period for the French government, which is currently preparing a deficit-narrowing 2027 budget. Investor concerns over these fiscal plans, coupled with the ongoing unrest, pushed the country's 10-year bond yield above 5% last week, marking the highest level since 2002. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon stated that restoring order is the current priority as police continue to clash with protesters, with reports of tear gas being deployed. A nationwide day of demonstrations is scheduled for Tuesday, further complicating the social and fiscal outlook for the administration.