Protests have significantly disrupted hundreds of high schools across France. The Union Syndicale Lycéenne, a student union, reported a historic turnout. About 2,000 high schools came to a halt, and all universities joined the protests. Students, parents, and teachers are demanding better school conditions.
Demonstrators claim schools face severe issues like underfunding and poor resources. These protests have entered their third week, with participants voicing concerns over deteriorating infrastructures. For example, in Saint-Denis, near Paris, students report issues such as collapsing ceilings, water damage, and rats.
Protests have sparked clashes with law enforcement. Authorities have detained over 5,000 people, including more than 4,000 teenagers. In Bordeaux, students and union members took to the streets to protest under-resourced schools. Video clips show protesters fleeing police using tear gas and stun grenades.
During Monday’s demonstrations, a 15-year-old student suffered a hand injury in the northern town of Lens. The injury occurred after he picked up a police grenade, which exploded. A police source noted he had picked up a sting-ball grenade fired by riot police.
Last week, in Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône, a 14-year-old sustained a jaw fracture. Reports suggest a tear gas grenade struck him in the head. Local authorities have launched investigations into these incidents.
The French government is currently in a political deadlock as the presidential elections approach next spring. Protesters have heard few meaningful concessions. As one protester expressed to CBS News, “I’ll make noise as long as I’m not getting a response.”
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