Mass demonstrations across France demand education reform after violent clash

On Tuesday, France witnessed coordinated protests in more than 40 university campuses and dozens of high schools. The movement, which began over inadequate funding for secondary education, has grown to include demands for smaller class sizes, better teacher recruitment and renovation of aging school facilities. Police have arrested large numbers of participants and reported damage to public property. Several education officials, including Minister Édouard Philippe, have acknowledged the scale of the crisis, noting that 400‑500 schools could remain closed due to safety concerns. The unrest has also prompted heightened security measures in Paris and other major cities.