Student protests engulf France, with around 1,949 arrests and 305 police officers injured

France’s wave of student protests is escalating. The demonstrations, which began over conditions in schools, have now spread to cities across the country. In some areas, the protests have been accompanied by clashes and acts of violence.

Authorities reported 1,949 arrests on Thursday alone. Meanwhile, 305 police and gendarmerie officers were injured in the incidents.

The situation is unfolding around seven months before the 2027 presidential election, as Emmanuel Macron’s government faces strong social pressure over problems in the education system.

According to the Interior Ministry, most of those arrested are suspected of violence, attacks on public officials and involvement in rioting. The Justice Ministry said that 1,793 people had been detained since Monday.

The number of injured among the security forces was also confirmed by the Interior Ministry, which said that 305 police and gendarmerie personnel were hurt during Thursday’s clashes.

Education Minister Edouard Geoffrey announced that approximately 400 schools would remain closed and that lessons would continue remotely.

Since the protests began, 170 students and 65 education staff members have also been injured, according to figures released by the minister.

Student dissatisfaction is linked to teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, the condition of school buildings and other difficulties affecting the delivery of lessons.

While gatherings have been peaceful in some cities, protesters in other areas have clashed with police, set fires and been involved in other incidents.

In Nantes, a fire caused considerable damage to Nelson-Mandela high school. Elsewhere, protesters burned rubbish bins and set off fireworks.

Other cities also faced damage to public infrastructure and transport vehicles. In some cases, security forces used tear gas to disperse the crowds.

Prime Minister Sébastien Lecorni has called a meeting to discuss the crisis, while the movement has also spread to universities. The student organization Union Étudiante reported blockades at around 30 campuses.

The government has adopted a harsher tone toward the protests. Lecorni has described the movement as “civil unrest,” while the Interior Ministry claims that some of the violence is politically motivated and has accused France Insubordinate (LFI), as well as radical left-wing organizations.

LFI has denied the accusations, saying that the government is relying on “conspiracy theory” and repression instead of addressing the students’ demands.

The protests are now spreading to higher education as well. The main demands concern increased resources, filling vacant teaching positions and improving the conditions in which teaching takes place.

The education minister called on all sides to reduce tensions and announced the launch of dialogue with representatives of students, parents and teachers. He also said he would commit to a structured consultation process.