France detains thousands as school protests spread and turn violent

France has seen several days of disruptive demonstrations by high school and university students over the condition of school buildings and staff shortages, with authorities detaining thousands as unrest spread across the country.

Reports say protests continued in more than 500 schools and that violent incidents reoccurred as some gatherings escalated. Around 400 high schools were due to close and switch to remote teaching, Education Minister Edouard Geffray said, and access to protests near closed facilities was restricted.

Violence, an officer attacked and an inquiry

Interior Minister Laurent Nunez shared a televised clip on X on October 2, 2026, showing what he said was an assault on a police officer in Belfort; the officer was hospitalised but "his condition is no longer a cause of serious concern", the minister wrote, and authorities have opened an investigation for attempted murder and are searching for the perpetrators.

Police were attacked during several demonstrations and dozens of students and school staff were injured, according to media reports. Authorities say they have arrested thousands of people in the wave of unrest.

Facing the protests, Edouard Geffray plans to meet with high school pupils and university students to discuss their demands. Justice Minister Gérald Darmanin proposed that parents cover material damage caused by their children during demonstrations.

Photo: press material from the event