French students resume school blockades as protests widen

· Politics · France

Dozens of high schools across France were blockaded again on Monday as pupils returned from holidays, with the government bracing for another tense week of protests over school conditions and the high cost of living. The education minister warned that weeks without lessons are putting exams at risk, and unions plan a nationwide strike on Thursday. The cost-of-living rallies emerged after high school students launched nationwide demonstrations in September over learning conditions and inequality. Organisers say the movement is growing into a challenge to the government's socioeconomic policy.

Why it matters:France's protest wave tests the government's ability to contain social discontent and could disrupt a school year and broader economy.

Key points

  • Dozens of high schools were blockaded on Monday.
  • Unions plan a nationwide strike on Thursday.
  • The education minister warned weeks without lessons put exams at risk.

Sources (original reporting)

More stories from this day