Five Thousand People Detained in School Protests in France
As high school and university protests against budget cuts and reforms spread across France, hundreds of schools closed nationwide and thousands of people, mostly minors, were detained.
Student protests that began in the Paris suburbs in mid-September spread across the country in France, leading to the closure of nearly 500 schools and the detention of more than 5,000 people, the majority of whom are minors.
Beginning and Reasons for the Protests
Student unions and high school associations stated in a joint statement last week that authorities are trying to push students away from educational spaces through budget cuts, school closures, neglected buildings, and pressure.
Spontaneous blockades that began at a high school in a Paris suburb in mid-September quickly turned into a mass movement spreading nationwide.
School Closures and Damages
According to information reflected in the press, up to 500 schools across the country had to suspend educational activities as a result of the incidents.
According to verifications made by the Ministry of Education, 24 schools were burned or looted during the actions, causing millions of euros in total material damage.
Detention Reports and Demographics
Since the beginning of the protests nationwide, more than 5,000 people have been detained by security forces, with young people making up a significant portion of these individuals.
According to official data reported by media outlets, minors account for a large proportion, around 85 percent, of the detained activists.