‘We’re short of resources’: France’s student protesters, in their own words

Key Points:

• At least 250,000 students, teachers, and parents protested across France against poor school conditions, including dilapidated buildings, teacher shortages, and overcrowded classrooms, with the movement starting from high school blockades in Creteil on September 17.
• The protests have been met with a strong police response, resulting in over 6,000 arrests (85% under 18), multiple injuries on both sides, and investigations into police misconduct due to excessive use of force such as tear gas and rubber bullets.
• The French government proposed a five-point education reform plan after meeting with student leaders, but protesters and rights groups consider it insufficient to address the crisis, calling for more resources, teachers, and better teaching conditions.
• Protesters expressed frustration over government priorities, accusing President Macron’s administration of investing in military efforts rather than education and social services, while emphasizing the need for solidarity among youth, students, and workers to push for change.
• Teachers and students highlighted long-standing neglect of schools, particularly in suburbs compared to Paris, and warned that protests will continue, including a large demonstration planned for October 17 involving high schoolers, students, and farmers.