Paris: Tens of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Tuesday as students, teachers and trade unions joined demonstrations demanding improved conditions in the country’s schools.
The protests, which have continued for several days, have been marked by clashes and confrontations between demonstrators and police in some areas.
Students have blocked the entrances to hundreds of high schools since late September, protesting what they describe as a shortage of teachers, overcrowded timetables and deteriorating school infrastructure. They have also raised concerns about classrooms and school buildings struggling to cope with rising temperatures.
Rights groups, trade unions and students have accused police of using excessive force during the demonstrations. According to reports, a teenage protester lost a hand after a police stun grenade exploded nearby on Monday, while another student reportedly suffered serious dental injuries after being hit by a projectile fired from a police launcher last week.
In central Paris, large crowds gathered at Place de la République, a traditional site for demonstrations. A banner reading “Neglected schools, sacrificed youth” was also displayed from a nearby monument.
The demonstrations have drawn significant participation from younger protesters. A 19-year-old participant said the younger generation wanted its concerns to be heard and hoped the government would respond to their demands.
A 15-year-old student in Marseille said she was worried about her future, reflecting broader concerns among young people participating in the protests.
The demonstrations come months ahead of France’s 2027 presidential election, in which voters will choose a successor to President Emmanuel Macron.
The French Interior Ministry said around 86,000 people had joined demonstrations across the country by Tuesday, while the CGT trade union estimated the nationwide turnout at around 260,000.
The protests are expected to continue as students, unions and other groups press the government for improvements in education and working conditions.
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