French students plan new protests after clashes with police

Most French students returned to class after several days of demonstrations. Organisers have called for fresh protests next week, while the United Nations voiced concern over clashes and urged all sides to remain peaceful.

Tens of thousands have taken to the streets since late September to demand better education conditions. High school students cite teacher shortages, overloaded schedules and deteriorating buildings. On Friday, the Education Ministry said 141 of France’s 3,700 high schools were closed. A week earlier, protests had disrupted around 800 schools.

The Justice Ministry said more than 6,800 people had been detained since the demonstrations began, 86% of them minors. Protesters and rights groups have accused police of using excessive force. After a 15-year-old lost a hand when a stun grenade was used on October 5, the government suspended use of the weapon. Police have opened 18 internal investigations into allegations of misconduct.

Education Minister Edouard Geffray announced that about 3,000 substitute teachers would be sent to the 114 most affected high schools. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu promised a response plan by the end of October. Students and their representatives, however, say the measures are insufficient and are preparing another wave of demonstrations.