World

France school riots spread as 625 held, 83 police hurt

By AAP Newswire

Oct 1, 2026

French police face students next to Baggio High School in Lille — Student are protesting over a lack of resources, a shortage of teachers and dilapidated schools. -AP

Riots and protests at French schools have grown in scale and intensity, leading to 625 arrests over the course of the day, Interior Minister Laurent Nunez says in Paris.

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A total of 83 police officers and 32 teachers and pupils were injured, Nunez said, adding that 356 schools were affected by protests.

Violence had increased significantly, with destruction inside schools and arson attacks reported.

Cars belonging to teachers were also set on fire.

The protests began on Friday at secondary schools in the greater Paris area.

They are directed against a lack of resources, a shortage of teachers and dilapidated school buildings.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the young people's concerns were legitimate but could in no way justify violence and attacks on police officers, teachers and reporters covering the protests.

On the question of possible police violence during the protests, Macron said officers must adhere to their professional duties and any violations must be prosecuted.

"But I think the violence comes above all from those who shoved and kicked teachers," he said.