The expansion of the movement follows widespread unrest on Monday that forced the partial or total closure of up to 500 schools, according to Education Minister Edouard Geffray. Since the movement began, 24 institutions have been burned or ransacked, including a €75M public school in Nantes, and over 200 students have been injured. In Lens, a police watchdog is investigating a confrontation in which a 15 year old student lost his hand after a stun grenade exploded during a clash with police.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
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86,000 Protest Across France for Education Funding
World15 days ago
French government authorities are monitoring a surge in civil disobedience as faculty associations join forces with students to demand systemic educational reform. The ministry reported that approximately 86,000 people participated in student-led marches across the nation on Tuesday, with thousands more gathering under heavy police surveillance for rallies in Paris. Protesters are calling for an increase in funding to address chronic teacher shortages, smaller class sizes, and the repair of overcrowded and crumbling facilities.
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