Widespread student protests persist across France

France is experiencing a second week of intense social unrest as thousands of students and teachers continue to protest against poor school conditions, dilapidated infrastructure, overcrowded classrooms, and staff shortages. Demonstrations have spread from the Paris suburbs to major cities including Lille, Rennes, Nantes, Toulon, and Marseille, with a notable gathering at the Bastille square in Paris involving thousands of participants. According to official government data, 86% of high schools were functioning by October 8, with the number of blocked schools declining, though local disruptions remain common.

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez reported that since the movement began, 761 police and gendarmes, 215 students, and 89 staff members have been injured, with 6,629 arrests recorded. While the government has moved to ban stun grenades, critics such as Socialist Party leader Olivier Faure are demanding a total ban on rubber-bullet launchers (LBD). Currently, 18 administrative investigations are underway regarding police misconduct, including reports of injuries and harassment. While Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu is scheduled to address the nation regarding the broader fiscal and social crisis, union leaders and student groups have already called for further strikes and demonstrations for the following Tuesday.