Jean-Luc Mélenchon, a long-time political figure and founder of the leftist party La France Insoumise, took part in a debate on Monday, October 5, as part of a series of events organized by HEC Débats in partnership with Public Sénat. The discussion focused on his political vision, particularly his relationship with the economic sector, his policies aimed at addressing the needs of young people, and the practicality of his economic plans in light of recent student protests across France. Mélenchon described the current youth movement as the most significant since the 1968 protests, emphasizing that it reflects deep dissatisfaction with the state of education and social conditions in the country. He criticized the media for what he called an "infamous system" that he believes is trying to discredit him and his allies. Mélenchon also responded to accusations from political opponents, including Valérie Pécresse, the president of the Île-de-France region, who had labeled supporters of La France Insoumise as "pompiers pyromanes," or "firefighters starting fires." Mélenchon denied that his movement was being manipulated and argued that young people were genuinely embracing his political ideas. He pointed to the decline in the quality of education and the challenges faced by students as key factors behind the protests. Mélenchon specifically criticized Parcoursup, a digital platform used for higher education admissions, which he said has left around 100,000 students unable to enter university. He also condemned the police for what he described as "insupportable violence," accusing them of harboring "rotten, racist ideas." While acknowledging that some young people had been involved in acts of disorder, Mélenchon stressed the need to address the underlying societal issues driving the protests. The debate was broadcast live on the websites publicsenat.fr and YouTube, allowing a wider audience to follow the discussion. The event is part of a broader effort to engage the public in conversations about the upcoming 2027 presidential election, offering insights into the political landscape and the challenges facing France.