Hundreds of French high schools have been barricaded and forced to close as students protest against teacher shortages, crumbling buildings, and overcrowded classes. The protests, which began in low-income suburbs, have spread across the country, with pupils also demonstrating against French riot police.
Human rights groups have accused police of using disproportionate force against children, leading to ten investigations into possible police brutality. Injuries allegedly involving police weapons include a 15-year-old who reportedly lost a hand and another who lost an eye. The government states that at least 215 teenagers and 715 police officers have been injured in recent clashes.
Students are calling for more funding and greater equality in French schools. Many are also protesting against what they describe as a discriminatory education system. Tens of thousands of students, trade unionists, and parents are expected to march in support of the protests across France today, with riot police on alert.
The justice ministry reported that 5,060 people have been arrested since the protests began, with 87% of them being minors. More than 1,800 people, including 1,483 minors, have been prosecuted, though the specific crimes were not detailed. The government also stated that 24 schools have been burned or ransacked.