Live: Police fire tear gas at student protesters in Paris ahead of afternoon marches nationwide

Key Points:

• High school students across France continued protests on October 8, 2026, amid a broader national malaise linked to the cost of living crisis and upcoming presidential elections, despite government efforts to ease tensions.
• Clashes between police and students intensified in Paris, with tear gas used against barricaded high schools such as Lycée Helene Boucher, and reports of police brutality including severe injuries to several adolescents, prompting suspension of stun grenade use by authorities.
• Over 6,100 people, mostly minors, have been arrested since the protests began, with many schools partially or fully closed—224 schools remained closed on October 8, representing about 6% of middle and high schools nationwide.
• French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu addressed the nation, reaffirming the need to reduce public deficit despite protests and assuring no recent education budget cuts, while the Education Minister planned visits to affected schools to engage with students.
• The protests have drawn support from trade unions, some teachers, and political figures like Saint-Denis mayor Bally Bagayoko, who publicly defended students and criticized police tactics during demonstrations.