French School Protests: Police Fire Tear Gas as Officer Is Charged Over Injured Student
Police Use Tear Gas During Nationwide Protests
French police fired tear gas and used water cannons on Tuesday as thousands of students, teachers and parents took part in nationwide demonstrations over school funding and worsening conditions.
The protests spread across several cities, including Paris, Strasbourg, Rennes and Toulouse. Police moved to disperse groups after clashes broke out around some demonstrations.
France’s Interior Ministry said more than 250,000 people joined protests across the country. Organisers gave a higher estimate of about 450,000 participants.
The demonstrations have become one of the biggest waves of student unrest in France in decades.
Officer Charged Over Injured Student
The latest protests came as a police officer was placed under formal investigation over the serious injury of a 14-year-old student in Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône, near Paris.
The officer is accused of using a grenade launcher at close range against the teenager, identified as Eden. Prosecutors said the officer has been charged with violence by a public official resulting in mutilation or permanent disability.
The officer has also been placed under judicial supervision and suspended from duty while the investigation continues.
Eden suffered severe facial injuries, including a double jaw fracture and extensive damage to his teeth. His family has accused police of using excessive force.
Video footage reviewed by French media showed the teenager near several officers before a grenade was fired and struck him in the face. Authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Student Protests Spread Across France
The protests began with complaints about overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages and deteriorating school buildings.
Students have also criticised what they describe as unequal educational conditions, particularly in poorer areas around Paris.
The movement has expanded rapidly. Reuters reported that demonstrations were taking place at more than 1,200 schools as the protests spread nationwide. More than 5,000 people had been arrested in earlier stages of the unrest, many of them teenagers.
The protests have also included school blockades and class disruptions.
Another Teenager Lost His Hand
The police response has come under increased scrutiny after another teenager suffered a devastating injury in Lens on Monday.
The 15-year-old lost his hand when a police grenade exploded during clashes near a school. Officials said protesters had thrown objects at police before riot officers intervened.
Investigators are examining whether the teenager picked up the grenade or whether it landed on him before exploding. The case has been handed to France’s police watchdog, the IGPN.
The incident has intensified criticism of police tactics during the demonstrations.
Hundreds Injured in the Unrest
The growing protests have produced injuries on both sides.
French authorities said hundreds of police officers have been injured during the unrest. Education officials have also reported injuries among school staff.
At the same time, hundreds of students have suffered injuries, with some cases involving serious and potentially permanent harm.
France’s police watchdog is investigating several incidents involving alleged excessive force. Authorities are also investigating violence committed against police officers and other people during the protests.
Government Faces Pressure
The French government is facing pressure to address the students’ concerns while also restoring order.
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has acknowledged concerns about education but has condemned violence during demonstrations.
The government has promised measures aimed at improving schools, while students and their supporters continue to demand better funding, more teachers and safer learning environments.
The protests are now a major national issue as France approaches its next presidential election.
For now, tensions remain high. More demonstrations are expected as students continue to demand changes to France’s education system, while police face growing scrutiny over how they handle the unrest.
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