Protests Against Educational Standards in France, Over 700 Schools Affected, 1,747 Arrested

During protests against the quality of education in France, clashes erupted between police and demonstrators, affecting more than 700 schools. High‑school students and other protesters are demanding the removal of teachers, overcrowded classrooms, and dilapidated buildings. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez announced on Friday that 1,747 people had been arrested.

The protests began last week in the capital Paris and have now spread to various parts of the country. Several cities, including Mont‑Plais, Nantes, and Marseille, have been affected. Justice Minister Gerald Darmann said the situation had shifted from high‑school student demonstrations to a matter of public order. According to him, of France’s 3,700 schools, 735 have been impacted in some way by violent protests. In a BBC report, Nunez said on Friday night that the country is moving toward riots and civil violence and that all means are being used to end it. Meanwhile, Education Minister Edward Giffrey claimed that the movement had been taken over by non‑student elements. He told the French broadcaster BFMTV that teachers had reported that the people in front of him were not his students.

On Friday, a 17‑year‑old was arrested on suspicion of murder after a police officer was targeted during a protest in the northeastern city of Belfort. BBC verified two videos in which a person, later identified by a minister as a police officer, was assaulted. The video shows a group of youths chasing him, dropping him to the ground, and repeatedly striking him on the head with fists and kicks.

According to the Ministry of Education, at least 65 staff members were injured during the unrest. In the Paris suburb of Penthine, police acted against demonstrators and arrested several individuals after objects were thrown at officers. According to the news agency Reuters, in Strasbourg, fearing further escalation, police used tear gas.

In Reims and Paris, trash cans were also set on fire. Sixteen‑year‑old protester Lola told AFP on Friday that “as far as we are concerned, we have won; our school is closed this morning.” She said police actions had worsened the situation. “According to us, we become more angry; the police have no right to attack us or use tear gas,” she added.

Police released images of items seized from demonstrators, including petrol bombs, a hammer, and so‑called mortar fireworks. The Ministry of Education said that attacks on school doors, entryways, and fences caused significant damage to educational institutions. According to the regional government, the Nelson Mandela High School in Nantes suffered losses exceeding 2 million euros, with a fire destroying the glass front door and parts of the interior.

The school lockdowns and protests began last week and later spread to hundreds of schools nationwide. Students say school hours are too long, classrooms are too hot, and many staff members are absent from work. These protests are occurring at a time when French President Emmanuel Macron faces a politically crucial period, with roughly six months remaining until the presidential election next year.