Protesters in France continue their demonstrations: more than 6,000 people have been arrested, while classes have been suspended in 375 schools

High school students’ protests continue in France, where more than 6,000 people have been arrested since the demonstrations began, and classes have been fully or partially suspended in 375 schools. According to preliminary data from the Ministry of Education, more than 220 institutions are closed amid the nationwide mobilization sparked by dissatisfaction with conditions in schools.

The number of affected educational institutions where classes have been fully or partially suspended has fallen by approximately 30% compared with the previous day. On Tuesday, approximately 450,000 people took part in protests across the country. The demonstrations have lasted for more than two weeks and have repeatedly led to the intervention of law enforcement forces.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu accused the far left of inciting violence and attempting to provoke chaos ahead of the 2027 presidential elections. He maintained that police officers had not been ordered to confront the students, but to protect people and property and ensure access to schools.

Of the 6,100 people arrested, the majority are minors with no criminal records. The authorities have also suspended the use of stun grenades against high school students after a 15-year-old was seriously injured in a confrontation with riot police.