Nearly 5,000 individuals have been detained, over 600 police officers injured, and property damage has reached tens of millions of euros. This follows the student protests over issues like teacher shortages and deteriorating school facilities. Reports of rats in classrooms have also sparked protests, causing concern among authorities. The Paris Police Prefecture issued a warning, highlighting the movement’s increasing violence.

This warning came in the form of an open letter from Patrice Faure, Paris police chief, published as officials prepared for further protests. These events have disrupted numerous schools, injuring students, teachers, and police. Faure’s letter indicates that the movement’s original goals have been overshadowed by chaos. The French Ministry of Education has not yet commented on the matter.

Student protests began in the Paris suburbs and spread nationwide due to complaints of insufficient teachers, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate resources. Students point to years of neglect leading to subpar learning environments. Schools in Saint-Denis, near Paris, have become focal points due to their poor conditions.

A student named Fadila highlighted infestation issues, saying, “There are cockroaches and rats everywhere in the school,” while noting seasonal temperature extremes in classrooms.

Many students demand education and dignity, questioning the state’s reliance on police measures instead of educational investment. Despite focusing on internal school issues, authorities now emphasize the violence linked to these protests. The French government acknowledges disruptions across various schools, with notable damage and injuries reported.

France’s education minister, Edouard Geffray, recognized the legitimacy of some student concerns but condemned the violence surrounding these protests. The protests have affected many schools, with increased damages noted at over 100 high schools.

In his letter, Faure appealed to students to stop school blockades and continue peaceful protests. He stated violence undermines the movement, which is “held hostage by ultra-violent fringe groups.” Student organizations have scheduled another nationwide protest, posing a challenge to Emmanuel Macron’s government. Officials face pressure to restore order while responding to calls for educational investment.