The nationwide protests in France scheduled for Tuesday are organized by students and union groups. Tens of thousands are expected to take to the streets to voice their demands.
Reasons and Demands of the Protesters
This protest is part of a movement that has started in recent weeks, calling on the government of Emmanuel Macron to address the issues of underfunded and overcrowded schools. Since late September, hundreds of school entrances have been blocked by protesting students.
Students have pointed to poor learning conditions, including teacher shortages, heavy schedules, dilapidated classrooms, and buildings unsuitable for high temperatures.
Reactions to the Protests and Clashes
While many protests have been peaceful, some protesters have set fire to trash cans and vandalized bus shelters, clashing with riot police. The police have responded with batons, tear gas, and rubber bullets, and officials have referred to these actions as signs of urban violence.
The French Ministry of Justice has announced that since the start of these protests, 5,060 people have been arrested, 87% of whom are teenagers. Over 1,800 individuals face charges, including 1,483 teenagers. However, about 790 cases have already been closed.
Internal Investigations into Police Conduct
Unions and human rights groups have protested against the disproportionate use of police force against children. Laurent Nunez, the French Minister of the Interior, announced on Monday that the police have initiated 10 internal investigations into allegations of violent conduct since the protests began.
Among the reports, a 15-year-old lost his hand during a protest in the city of Lens, and a 16-year-old lost vision in his right eye after a serious head injury. Additionally, in Saint-Ouen-la-Umone, a 14-year-old has lost most of his teeth.
Government Response to Students' Demands
Sébastien Lecornu, the French Prime Minister, announced that he has instructed government ministers to address the main demands of the students. These demands include ensuring the replacement of absent teachers, reviewing the school day length from 8 AM to 6 PM, and the need for longer lunch breaks.
The government has also promised to address necessary repairs for old school buildings. Lecornu noted that ministers are expected to present their initial proposals by the end of October. This protest adds more pressure on a government seeking to reduce an increasing budget deficit.
Read more: Student protests in France continue over school conditions
