Protests that began in mid-September over education funding and conditions have expanded across France, with yellow vest activists and trade unions set to join. The government faces criticism over police violence and detention of minors.
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01Summary
- 01Protesters are demanding better school buildings, more teachers and an end to what they see as inequality in education.
- 02More than 6,700 children have been taken into police custody since mid-September.
- 03A 15-year-old lost his hand from a stun grenade in Lens and a 16-year-old lost his sight from a rubber bullet in Tours.
- 04The government recorded a deficit of €152.5 billion last year, equivalent to 5.1% of GDP.
- 05Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu described a 'moment of fatigue in the country' amid wars, inflation and purchasing power issues.
02Why it matters
France is bracing for a potential large-scale mobilisation that could strain public services and deepen social and political tensions. The government's response, including use of force and detention of minors, will be watched closely.
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