In brief
Last Thursday, flames broke out at multiple French secondary schools as students blockaded institutions nationwide to demand better funding, more teachers and safer facilities. The nation saw 1,949 arrests and 305 police injuries, prompting a crisis meeting by Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu. While some students claim lack of resources, politicians accuse far‑right groups of inciting unrest; the rallies now spill into universities and public transport services.
On Thursday, flames erupted at several French secondary schools as students marched in nationwide blockades demanding better funding, more teachers and safer facilities.
In Nantes, two high schools caught fire after a bin was set alight, spreading to damage the entrance hall of the Nelson Mandela school. A similar blaze was seen at a school in Rouen, while in Marseille a teacher was splashed with petrol.
Police recorded 1,949 arrests and 305 injuries. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu convened a crisis meeting, and the government characterised the protests as “urban violence.”
The demonstrations have spilled onto universities – with at least 30 campuses blockaded – and halted public transport in Marseille and Strasbourg.
While students point to under‑funded classrooms and overcrowded schools, politicians blame the far‑right for incitement. National Rally’s Marine Le Pen pushed for a new anti‑riot law, whereas left‑wing leaders called for calm expression.
The situation is evolving. Follow our live feed for continuous updates and community commentary.
