What happened
A large-scale protest took place across France, with approximately 256,000 participants, including high school and university students, far-left activists, and trade unionists. The protests, which were marked by clashes with police, were sparked by concerns over school conditions, including teacher shortages and deteriorating school buildings.
The demonstrations, which took place in roughly 30 cities, were characterized by anti-police and far-left chants, with some protesters throwing stones, glass bottles, and mortar-style fireworks at police. In response, police used tear gas to disperse the crowds.
A total of 488 arrests were made nationwide, with 43 police officers injured, according to the Interior Ministry. The protests also resulted in the suspension of classes at around 900 high schools.
The movement has been supported by various political forces, including the far-left France Unbowed (LFI) party, whose leader, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, participated in the protests. However, the involvement of these groups has been criticized by some, who argue that the protests are being used as a pretext for far-left rioting and violence.
The US President Donald Trump commented on the situation, describing it as a result of "out-of-control mass migration."
