School protests, blockades resume in France despite PM’s promise to act | Education News
Protests Erupt Across France Over Education Funding and Conditions
Published Oct. 8, 2026
Paris — Protests have rekindled in schools across France as high school students continue to advocate for increased education funding and improved conditions, coinciding with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu’s directive for ministers to develop an action plan in response to these demands.
Reports from Al Jazeera indicate that university students and additional trade unions have joined the nationwide demonstrations, which included a significant rally anticipated to take place in the capital on Thursday.
Students have been actively blocking streets in solidarity, with university attendees setting up barricades outside schools. They emphasize the importance of a unified youth presence in these protests.
The movement began on September 21, originating from a high school in a disadvantaged Paris neighborhood. Since then, tens of thousands of students across the country have participated, calling for improvements that range from the renovation of school buildings to reduced classroom hours.
Police Response Under Scrutiny
Human rights organizations have criticized law enforcement for allegedly applying excessive force against demonstrators. Several injuries have been reported, including a teenager who lost a hand and another who sustained severe facial injuries from an exploding stun grenade. In response, authorities have banned such grenades from demonstrations.
Both police officers and teachers have also been injured, as officials accused some students of engaging in violent behavior. As of now, the Interior Ministry reports at least 6,600 arrests, primarily involving minors.
Authorities noted that 375 schools were either fully or partially closed on Thursday, with reports of around two dozen schools being burned or otherwise destroyed.
The growing unrest poses significant challenges for the financially strained government of Emmanuel Macron, particularly ahead of elections scheduled for April.
In a televised address on Wednesday, Prime Minister Lecornu denounced the violence and criticized political figures who he claimed were exploiting the situation for electoral gain. This came after opposition leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon encouraged protesters to continue their demonstrations.
Lecornu has instructed his ministers to present a concrete action plan addressing student demands by the end of the month. However, many protesters remain skeptical, arguing that the government has failed to translate discussions into meaningful actions. As a result, they assert their commitment to continue protesting until their objectives are achieved.
