Greta Thunberg joins French student protests

Environmental activist Greta Thunberg joined student demonstrations in Saint-Denis, France, on Tuesday, October 13, during the "Acte V" phase of the youth-led mobilization. She addressed the crowd at Paul-Eluard High School, encouraging young people to "rise up and reclaim their rights."

Thunberg criticizes police violence

During her speech, Greta Thunberg condemned the police as "very violent" and said they were targeting young people who were protesting for "the strict minimum." She argued that this behavior reveals whose interests the police are truly protecting.

Youth demands and societal neglect

Thunberg praised the determination of French youth and warned that a society that neglects its young people has "abandoned its responsibilities." She said schools are not receiving the investments they need, and that this signals young people are not a priority in French society.

Blockades spread across France

Early Tuesday, new blockades began at high schools and universities across France as part of the student mobilization. Demonstrations are continuing nationwide to support the students' demands for better resources and improved conditions in education.

Minister notes decline in blockades

The Minister of National Education, Édouard Geffray, noted a "decline" in blockades, though around 200 educational institutions are still expected to be closed during the day. Some schools hope to avoid damage while still expressing their support for the movement.

Injuries reported during protests

According to recent data from the ministries of National Education and the Interior, more than 215 students and nearly 800 police officers have been injured since the start of the student mobilization. These figures highlight the intensity of the ongoing protests.

Thunberg calls for unity of causes

At the end of her speech, Greta Thunberg announced she would participate in a demonstration in Paris later that afternoon. She urged the convergence of different struggles, including those related to climate change, labor rights, and the economy, emphasizing the need for "the union of causes."