About 400 high schools to stay closed Friday as unrest spreads from Paris region
Hundreds of schools have been closed across France as student protests over poor education conditions spread nationwide, with demonstrations escalating into clashes with police in some cities.
The protests began in the Paris region and are driven by teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, inadequate resources and deteriorating school facilities. About 400 high schools were expected to stay closed on Friday, while hundreds more reported disruptions. Some university campuses have also been affected.
Authorities said the demonstrations have become increasingly violent, with fires, school blockades and confrontations with security forces. Education Minister Édouard Geffray said 65 education staff had been injured, including 40 school principals. About 1,950 arrests were made on Thursday alone.
Police used tear gas in some locations, while students accused officers of excessive force. A 16-year-old protester in Rennes said the police response was making demonstrators “even angrier.”
Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin said the situation had moved beyond ordinary student demonstrations and become a public-order disturbance. More than 100 high schools have reportedly suffered severe damage since the unrest intensified.
The government has acknowledged some of the students’ grievances while condemning the violence and vandalism. Education authorities have moved to keep lessons going through remote classes where school entrances remain blocked.
