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Students Take to the Streets in France: Tear Gas & School Protests

Hundreds of thousands of students march across France, sparking tear‑gas on stages. Their fight for better schools is a powerful youth movement.

Source: bbc.co.uk1 min read
Students Take to the Streets in France: Tear Gas & School Protests
Image via bbc.co.uk

In brief

In the wake of school overcrowding and a teacher shortage, students in Paris, Marseille and other cities have taken to the streets, demanding better education and less police force. Police responded with tear gas in Paris and Marseille, but most clashes remained low‑key. Around 215 students and 85 teachers were wounded in the protests, while 891 schools were disrupted as part of a nationwide movement that has attracted even parents and universities. Youth voices captured the urgency: a student from Marseille said, ‘My school’s roof leaks, we can’t focus,’ and promised to keep marching until conditions improve. The protests continue amid political pressure and a looming national election.

Hundreds of thousands of students in Paris, Marseille and other cities are marching, demanding better schools and less police violence. Police responded with tear gas in Paris and Marseille, but most clashes were calm.

The protests started over cramped classrooms and a shortage of teachers in Seine‑Saint‑Denis. The government said 215 students and 85 staff were hurt, with 891 schools disrupted nationwide.

Youth voices: “My school’s roof leaks, we can’t focus,” says Alissa. “We keep protesting until conditions improve.”

The movement continues as politicians and unions weigh new reforms and students push for immediate change.

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