Widespread student protests continue in France amidst clashes and school closures

Mass student demonstrations in France have entered their second week, with protesters demanding increased funding for education, improved infrastructure, and more teaching staff. According to the Ministry of National Education, while 86% of schools have reopened, roughly 528 institutions remain partially or fully blocked. The protests, which began in mid-September in the Paris suburbs, have spread to cities including Lille, Rennes, Nantes, Toulon, and Marseille, with a major static demonstration held at the Place de la Bastille in Paris.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported that 761 police officers, 215 students, and 89 school staff members have been injured since the unrest began, with 6,629 detentions recorded. Officials are currently investigating 18 administrative cases involving allegations of violence, sexual harassment, and the injury of students. Despite the Interior Ministry’s decision to ban the use of flash-bang grenades, critics such as Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure are demanding the further prohibition of rubber bullet launchers (LBDs).

Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is expected to address the nation regarding the broader crisis, which encompasses rising fuel costs and agricultural concerns. With school holidays approaching on October 17, authorities hope the unrest will subside, though tensions remain high as demonstrators continue to clash with riot police.