Society400 French schools closed as high-school protests escalate into ‘urban violence’

French high-school protests have escalated into what the education ministry calls “urban violence”, damaging about 100 schools and injuring 40 headteachers. Nearly 3,000 students have been detained. Pupils cite overloaded timetables, crowded classes, staff shortages and heat, while riot police confront the unrest. Around 400 schools remain closed.

Francehigh-school protestsschool closuresurban violence

TThe Guardian★★★★☆2026-10-02 08:09Original