French student protests intensified across the nation on Wednesday, resulting in more than 600 arrests and dozens of injuries. Security forces conducted widespread detentions as high school unrest escalated.
Violent confrontations and arson attacks were reported in several locations. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez condemned this “escalation of violence” occurring outside various schools. He confirmed that 83 police officers and gendarmes were wounded on Wednesday. In addition, 32 teachers and pupils also sustained injuries.
The protests impacted 356 schools nationwide. Minister Nunez specifically denounced the targeting of law enforcement officers. He also cited throwing projectiles, physical violence, verbal abuse, and attempted arson, describing it as “urban violence.”
Teenagers at French lycées, equivalent to high schools, have been blockading their institutions since last week. They are protesting several key issues. These include overcrowded classes, heavy workloads, and poor-quality learning materials. Moreover, teacher shortages are a significant concern.
Fadila, a 17-year-old student, highlighted poor conditions. She stated that cockroaches and rats were prevalent in her school. Classroom temperatures, she added, could swing from extreme heat to freezing cold.
The movement initially began in the Ile-de-France region, surrounding Paris. It has since spread considerably to other parts of the country. Major cities affected on Wednesday included Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Lille. In Lille, authorities deployed tear gas during renewed clashes.
President Emmanuel Macron acknowledged the legitimacy of the young people’s concerns. However, he firmly stated that these concerns could not justify violence or attacks on personnel. He emphasized that schools should foster knowledge, not face blockades or burning trash cans.
Both Macron and Nunez accused far-left groups of inciting violence during the demonstrations. Nunez noted the presence of agitators. He stated these individuals moved between schools, encouraging students to commit violent acts.
Officials and politicians have also criticized the left-wing La France Insoumise (LFI) party. They specifically denounced its presidential candidate, Jean-Luc Melenchon. Critics claimed his rhetoric was fueling student anger. On Monday, Melenchon accused the government of a “crackdown” with “obvious racist undertones.” He urged LFI activists to support the protests, tweeting: “Hands off our youth!”
Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu strongly condemned Melenchon’s accusation of racism. He labeled it “an insult.” Lecornu accused Melenchon of “racializing a debate about student security” and increasing division. He asserted that a responsible politician should instead seek to restore calm.
