Protests by high school students have escalated in several cities across France, with demonstrators clashing with police. Tear gas was used in Strasbourg, while protesters threw fireworks at police in Marseille. Trash cans were set on fire in Rennes, while fences were set ablaze and fireworks were thrown at police in Pantin, a suburb of Paris.
Foreign media reports that the protests, which began in the Paris region last week, are related to school conditions, teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms and infrastructure problems. About 400 high schools remained closed on Monday, while authorities have called on parents not to allow their children to participate in demonstrations due to violence.
According to authorities, 65 members of the education staff were injured in the incidents, including 40 school principals. Police have arrested around 2,000 people since the protests began, most of them teenagers. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin has said the protests were influenced by outsiders and has called for parents to be held financially responsible for the damage caused by their children.
Meanwhile, teachers' unions have called for a strike, demanding more investment in the education system. The dissatisfaction is also linked to the draft budget for 2027, where education funds are expected to increase by 1.7%, to 65.53 billion euros, a lower increase than inflation.
