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More than 2.66 lakh people took part in demonstrations across France on October 6, according to figures from the French Interior Ministry. The protests were held in support of high school students demanding better funding and resources for public education. Police used tear gas to control crowds in Paris and other cities as some demonstrations turned violent.
The protests, which began in the Paris region in mid-September, have now spread to several parts of France. Students have been raising concerns about crowded classrooms, teacher shortages and the condition of school buildings.
France Student Protests: Why Are Students Demonstrating?
Students are demanding better learning conditions and more resources for schools. Their concerns include overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of teachers and staff, and poorly maintained school buildings.
Some students have also complained about long school hours and a lack of basic facilities. The protests have received support from some parents, teachers, university students and other members of the public.
The demonstrations have included school blockades and class boycotts. The French Education Ministry said classes were fully or partially suspended at 891 schools on October 6.
Police Use Tear Gas During France Protests
While many demonstrations remained peaceful, clashes were reported between protesters and riot police in Paris. Police used tear gas and other crowd-control measures, while nearly 500 people were detained on October 6, according to the Interior Ministry.
The use of police force has become another major issue surrounding the protests. Rights groups and critics have raised concerns about the treatment of teenage protesters, while Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez has defended the police response, saying it was proportionate in almost all cases.
France Government Responds To Student Demands
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu said the government and school authorities need to listen to students and find solutions to their concerns. The Education Ministry has also launched an online platform where high school students can anonymously share problems they face at school and suggest changes.
The protests have also put the government under pressure over its proposed education spending. The draft 2027 budget proposes a 1.7 per cent increase in the education budget, according to media reports.
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