More than 400 people were detained in France during protests by lycée students on Tuesday. Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that 440 people had been detained, with nearly two-thirds taking custody. BBC News reports that the student movement began last week around Paris. Teenagers blocked entrances to educational institutions, protesting against overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages. Ministry of Education officials say at least 400 schools have been impacted by the protests.
One student, AFP reports, alleges that her class contains 34 students and that teachers are overwhelmed with work. She highlighted the students’ desire to draw attention to educational system problems.
At least 10 teachers, several students and 48 law enforcement officers were injured during the protests. Photographs and videos show burning rubbish bins and damaged bus stops. French media reported that protesters threw objects at police, while law enforcement used batons and tear gas. Education Minister Édouard Geffray condemned the violence, while union leader Riyad Rani accused the government of repression and police excessive force.
The government warned that an escalation of student protests would be irresponsible. 164 people were reported detained earlier.
Source: UA
