Student protests continue in France

On Monday, student protests in France remained strong ahead of a new phase of demonstrations, with hundreds of schools closed and several incidents reported, including a serious case where a 15-year-old lost a hand.

Students voice long-standing frustrations

Simon, a student at Charlemagne High School in Paris, said that despite being allowed to express opinions online, students are still frustrated and angry, a feeling he described as having been present for years. A consultation platform was set to launch on October 5 to let students voice their concerns, but the movement shows no signs of slowing down.

Education issues at the heart of the protests

Students are highlighting issues like lack of resources, insufficient teachers, poor school facilities, and problems with the Parcoursup college application system. Alma, another student at the same school, criticized the French education system, citing declining performance in the PISA international student assessments, which measure skills in reading, math, and science.

Union highlights worsening conditions

The SNICS-FSU union, representing nurses in education, stated that students are protesting against worsening conditions, including overcrowded classrooms, lack of support staff, and unequal access to education. They linked these problems to years of austerity policies that have weakened the education system.

Criticism of police response

The union condemned the use of excessive force by police during protests, citing incidents such as students handling dangerous weapons and increased arrests. They warned that such actions risk deepening distrust among young people toward institutions and democracy.

Government reports on protests' impact

According to Education Minister Edouard Geffray, over 5,000 people have been arrested, most of them minors, with 24 schools damaged and 78 staff members injured. Six internal police investigations are now underway into the events.

Union calls for solidarity

SNICS-FSU urged nurses to support student protests through strikes and other union actions, emphasizing that students should be able to demonstrate freely. The union said it would stand with students and staff facing repression, calling for solidarity and protection of their rights.