The key facts

  • More than 6,800 people have been detained since the protests began, 86% of them minors; the IGPN has opened 36 investigations
  • The government announced 3,000 substitute teachers and a €1 billion increase in the education budget; students consider the measures insufficient
  • On October 17, a nationwide protest action will take place against the rising cost of life and cuts in public spending

High school student protests continue

Protests by high school students dissatisfied with the shortage of teachers and learning conditions continue in France. Students continue to block schools; most of the actions are peaceful, but violent incidents have also occurred — riots and clashes between young demonstrators and the police, as noted by Euronews.

The authorities' reaction

Government spokesperson Maud Bregeon stated that the president of the republic emphasized: young people are expressing legitimate concerns, but these concerns are being used for political purposes, and the actions are turning into street violence with unacceptable scenes.

Detentions and investigations

According to Euronews, more than 6,800 people have been taken into police custody since the movement began, 86% of them minors. The police oversight body IGPN has opened 36 investigations into the actions of law enforcement officers toward demonstrators.

Government measures and students' reaction

In an attempt to calm the high school students, the authorities announced a series of measures several days ago, including bringing 3,000 substitute teachers into schools and increasing the education budget by one billion euros. High school student unions called these measures insufficient.

Nationwide action on October 17

Law enforcement structures are preparing for a new day of protests on Saturday, October 17. On that day, a nationwide action against the rising cost of living and cuts in public spending will take place in France, organized by the 'yellow vests' movement, leading trade unions, student unions, and left-wing parties. The government issued a warning.