US President Donald Trump has described the ongoing student protests in France as a reflection of mass migration. He also remarked that Muslims are attempting to take over France.
On Tuesday, approximately 266,000 people participated in protests across France, with about 56,000 in Paris alone. For over two weeks, students have been blockading schools and boycotting classes to press for various demands, including increased funding for the education sector.
At one point during the protests in Paris, clashes broke out, prompting police to fire tear gas. The country’s Interior Ministry reported that around 500 people were detained. Since the protests began, more than 6,500 individuals have been arrested, the majority of whom are minors.
The use of tear gas, batons, and other riot-control equipment against teenagers has sparked outrage among students, parents, and teachers. Tensions escalated further after a 15-year-old boy lost his hand on Monday due to a police stun grenade.
In almost all instances, the police response was deemed appropriate for the situation, with intervention occurring only when protests turned violent. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has urged authorities to listen to the students’ demands and take steps to resolve the issues, while also condemning the violence near schools.
Meanwhile, the protests have become a significant issue in French politics ahead of the upcoming presidential election. Beyond the financial crisis in the education sector, discontent is mounting in the country over rising prices, poverty, and income inequality.
