Student Protests Intensify in France, Nearly 400 Schools Shut, Clashes with Police

Nationwide protests by high school students in France against staff shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and the poor condition of schools intensified on Friday. During the unrest, approximately 400 schools were closed, and clashes occurred between students and police in several cities.

According to the Ministry of the Interior, approximately 3,000 high school students have been placed in police custody since the protests began. Local media reported that 1,949 students were detained on Thursday alone.

The protests, which started last week in the Paris area, have spread across the country, accompanied by an increase in violent incidents.

According to France 24, Education Minister Gabriel Attal stated that approximately 400 of France’s 3,700 high schools are expected to remain closed on Friday, while approximately 100 schools have suffered significant damage.

The entrances to two high schools in Paris were damaged by fire, while police used tear gas to disperse protesters in Brest.

Clashes between police and students were also reported in Strasbourg, Marseille, Nantes, and other cities.

Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has urged prosecutors to file civil liability claims against the parents of students allegedly responsible for the damage.

Education Minister Attal stated that at least 65 staff members, including 40 high school principals, were injured, while approximately 170 students were also hurt. He characterized the violence as an attempt by extreme violent elements to hijack the student movement.

Students have expressed concerns regarding long working hours in schools, overcrowded classes, teacher shortages, staff absenteeism, and inadequate facilities, including classrooms becoming excessively hot during heat waves.

Students have declared the school closures a success and accused the police of using excessive force.

With the 2027 presidential elections in France approaching, the protests have also taken on a political dimension. The government has accused the left-wing party "La France Insoumise" (LFI) of encouraging the student movement. LFI leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon rejected the allegation, stating that the government is "resorting to conspiracy theories."

Education Minister Attal will meet with representatives of education sector unions and high school student organizations on Friday to initiate dialogue and attempt to de-escalate tensions.