Riot police deployed heavy volleys of tear gas in Paris and major French cities on Tuesday after more than 250,000 students, teachers and parents flooded the streets.
The nationwide mobilization disrupted more than 40 cities marking the largest day of youth-led demonstrations in decades.
Demonstrators barricaded over 900 high schools using wheelie bins, metal barriers, and burning trash piles to highlight deteriorating classroom conditions and systemic education underfunding.
Police clashes and mass arrest escalate
The massive turnout swiftly escalated into tense confrontations as riot squads charged crowds and launched tear gas canisters. Interior Ministry officials confirmed that nearly 500 individuals were arrested on Tuesday alone bringing total detentions to over 6,100 since the movement began mid-September.
Authorities reported dozens of police officers and hundreds of students injured during the clashes with watchdogs raising severe concerns over heavy-handed policing tactics aimed at teenage protesters.
Government struggles to contain unrest
Organizers demand immediate investment in school infrastructure, increased teaching staff and an end to state-led force against youth. Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu condemned fringe violence and property damage surrounding the rallies, insisting the government would maintain zero tolerance for riots.
With over 40% of higher education institutions disrupted, the administration faces growing pressure to open dialogues with student leaders before the crisis paralyzes the nation further.
