France suspends stun grenades after student injuries in school protests
France’s nationwide student protests over crumbling school infrastructure and teacher shortages have reached a critical juncture as the French government suspended the use of stun grenades following severe injuries. The demonstrations, which involve blockades at high schools across the country, have resulted in hundreds of injuries to students and police officers alike, coinciding with widespread public anger six months ahead of the presidential election to replace Emmanuel Macron.
Stun Grenade Suspension Follows Severe Injuries in Paris and Regional Protests
The French government announced on Wednesday it was pausing the use of stun grenades in its policing of student protests, according to Dawn. The decision came after a 15-year-old boy’s hand was blown off during a clash with riot police. In Tours, another 16-year-old boy lost sight in his right eye from an injury consistent with a rubber bullet, the city’s prosecutor stated, as reported by The Guardian. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu told lawmakers that at least 215 teenagers and 85 school staff had been injured in clashes, marking what he described as the heaviest toll paid by the school system in decades, Reuters reported. His office noted that more than 700 police officers were also hurt during the demonstrations.
Infrastructure Complaints and Demands Drive Nationwide School Blockades
The protest movement originated as a call to address poor conditions in France’s 3,700 high schools, where students report basic maintenance problems ranging from water leaks and crumbling walls to rat infestations, alongside acute teacher shortages. Protesters at institutions such as Lycee Lamartine in central Paris and outside Sciences Po chanted slogans and demanded better learning conditions, while police responded with tear gas and water cannons.
Political Divisions and Government Response Ahead of the 2027 Election
Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu stated on Wednesday evening that the government would review student demands and present proposals at the end of October covering building renovations and teacher availability. However, student leaders criticized the lack of immediate solutions following talks at the education ministry. The unrest has ignited sharp political polarization six months before the April 2027 presidential election. Marine Le Pen’s National Rally party and government allies have accused hard-left France Unbowed (LFI) lawmakers and mayors of stoking the unrest, an allegation that LFI denies. Meanwhile, protests have spread internationally, with teachers’ strikes and student demonstrations reported in Belgium, Portugal, and Spain over budget pressures, cost-of-living crises, and working conditions.
Negotiations between the education ministry and student unions remain ongoing, with labor unions representing high-school students, teachers, and other workers planning further marches and strikes. Government proposals are officially scheduled for release at the end of October, though student leaders have yet to indicate whether upcoming demonstrations will be paused.
