Widespread student protests and school occupations continue across France

Since mid-September 2026, France has faced a major wave of student protests demanding better funding, more teaching staff, and upgraded school infrastructure. On October 13, mass demonstrations took place across major cities, with estimates of attendance varying between 160,000 according to police and 480,000 according to unions. Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg joined students at the Paul-Eluard high school in Saint-Denis to voice her support for their movement.

According to official data released by the French Ministry of the Interior and Ministry of Education on October 14, authorities have detained 7,950 individuals, of whom 85% are minors, leading to 2,735 legal prosecutions. The violent clashes have resulted in 937 injured police officers, 248 students, and 149 educators. While 96% of the country’s 3,700 high schools reopened on Wednesday, approximately 200 remain closed or under occupation.

President Emmanuel Macron addressed the cabinet, acknowledging that students have legitimate concerns while condemning the subsequent urban violence. The government is expected to provide concrete policy responses in the coming weeks. Tensions remain high, with authorities monitoring potential participation from other protest groups, such as the 'Yellow Vests,' in future demonstrations.