"Too many classes, too few teachers": Students take to the streets in France
In France, student protests are expanding due to dissatisfaction with overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of teachers, and overly tight class schedules. Within a week, the protests have spread to 356 schools, and clashes with the police have occurred in some cities.
"Too many classes, too few teachers": Students take to the streets in France
According to the DW publication, citing the AFP agency, French Minister of the Interior Laurent Nuñez announced on September 30 that the protests had spread to 356 schools. The day before, this figure stood at 338.
Since the protests began, 625 people have been detained. In the clashes, 83 police and gendarmerie officers have been injured.
According to the French Ministry of Education, 119 students and 34 school staff members have also been affected since last week. Minister Édouard Geffray described the situation as "an unprecedented state in the field of education."
The protests initially began in the Île-de-France region, which encompasses Paris and its surroundings, and later spread across the entire country.
High school students are protesting against overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of educators, the poor condition of educational institutions, and, in their opinion, an overly tight class schedule.
In some major cities, the protests have turned into clashes with the police. In some instances, protesters used stones and bottles containing flammable mixtures. The police, in turn, used tear gas.
French President Emmanuel Macron stated that he understands the "anxiety and anger" of many young people. However, he emphasized that none of these problems justify violence.
The government has announced that it will establish a dialogue platform so that students can express their concerns and demands. It is expected to launch no later than October 6. Following this, the authorities plan to analyze the situation on a national scale.
"In any case, we must ensure that our students return to classes," said the Minister of Education.
AFP notes that the left-wing populist "La France Insoumise" (France Unbowed) party supports the students' protest movement. Party leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon stated that his political force is calling for non-violent protests.