France braces for national day of school protests as boy loses hand
Student unions have called for demonstrations and high-school blockades on Tuesday. Thousands of trade unionists, teachers, public workers and parents are also expected at marches around France.
The protests have intensified amid concern about police conduct. A teenager lost a hand, and authorities have opened an investigation; officials have not established how the injury occurred or whether a stun grenade was involved.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu described students’ complaints as legitimate and instructed ministers to address five demands. These include finding cover for absent teachers and reviewing France’s long school days.
CGT union leader Sophie Binet said the government had acted too slowly on students’ concerns. She also criticised the policing of recent demonstrations and said union members would march to discourage violence.
University students have continued supporting the school protests, with as many as 40 university buildings blocked on Monday. Higher Education Minister Philippe Baptiste warned that demonstrations could grow, while government spokesperson Maud Bregeon said restoring order was the priority.
Key points
- Nationwide student demonstrations and school blockades are planned for Tuesday, with broad support marches expected.
- A teenager lost a hand; an investigation is under way, but the cause remains uncertain.
- The government says it will address student concerns about teacher cover and lengthy school days.