French students block schools, trade unions join protests

06.10.2026 13:26 HotInfo

French students continued protests on Tuesday calling for higher investment in education and better conditions in schools. Blockades were set up at several secondary schools and some universities, while tens of thousands of demonstrators were expected in Paris. Der Standard ↗

The protest movement has lasted about a week and, according to organizers, is among the largest student mobilizations in France in recent decades. Trade unions active in education also joined the students during the nationwide day of action. n-tv ↗

The situation was accompanied by injuries and mass arrests. The government of President Emmanuel Macron faces criticism for its harsh police response, and allegations of excessive use of force have also emerged. Former minister Ségolène Royal called for restraint and condemned the police repression of students. BBC World ↗

Jean-Luc Mélenchon, leader of La France insoumise, has also entered the political debate. Despite violent clashes, he called on his supporters to take part in the demonstrations. Critics accuse him of contributing to the escalation of unrest. Politico Europe ↗

One of the prominent figures of the student mobilization is eighteen-year-old Nathanaël Combary, who faces criticism from Mélenchon's movement. The protests have also sparked discussion about damage to schools and a proposal under which the costs could be borne by those who caused the damage. Further developments will depend on the scale of Tuesday's demonstrations and the government's response. Le Figaro ↗