French student protests draw differing estimates of university disruption

France held another day of school and student protests on Oct. 13. A student organisation claimed 90% of universities were blocked or closed, while the ministry reported disruption at 35% of higher education institutions.

The Union Étudiante organisation circulated its estimate in a press statement. According to AFP reporting carried by TV5MONDE, a detailed list of affected universities was still being finalised at the time.

The Higher Education Ministry gave a different assessment of the disruption. German public broadcasters Deutsche Welle and ARD reported the 35% figure. The descriptions differ: the union referred to blocked or closed universities, while the ministry described disruption at institutions under its remit.

Protesters are calling for better learning conditions. Their complaints include overloaded timetables, shortages of teachers and insufficient funding for education.

The movement began in the Paris region in mid-September and spread to other parts of France. The October protest marked another stage in the continuing mobilisation.

Some protests were accompanied by unrest. ARD reported police intervention in Lyon against a group of rioters on the edge of the demonstration.