French high school students are conducting nationwide protests over poor classroom conditions, including overcrowded classes, teacher shortages, and problematic timetables. Students are also calling for the reform or abolition of Parcoursup, the university admissions platform.
The movement, now entering its third week, has seen marches across major cities and a demonstration in Paris moving from Place d’Italie towards Les Invalides. These efforts are supported by university students, labor unions, and left-wing opposition parties, including the far-left France Unbowed party.
Protesters have used dumpsters and other obstacles to block access to high schools, particularly in central Paris. While some blockades have declined, incidents continue around some schools and clashes with police have occasionally broken out, leaving authorities concerned about potential violence.
The ongoing unrest is destabilizing the government and influencing the presidential election campaign. With no clear response from policymakers to their demands, teenagers are hoping to maintain momentum, with protests scheduled for October 13 seen as a possible turning point in the movement.