French Police Arrest 164 Students As School Protests Target Overcrowding, PM Warns Against Violence

French authorities have apprehended 164 students in connection with school protests nationwide, as Prime Minister Gabriel Attal issued a stern warning against escalating violence. The demonstrations, primarily mobilised through social media platforms, stem from student grievances regarding overcrowded classrooms and perceived inadequate school renovations.

Reports from the Ministry of Interior indicate that a number of these protests have involved the blocking of school entrances, the setting of fires, and damage to property. While some student organisers have emphasised their intention to protest peacefully, expressing legitimate concerns about educational conditions, Mr Attal stated that "no violence is acceptable" in relation to the disruptions.

The protests underscore a recurrent tension within the French educational system, where student dissatisfaction over resources and conditions periodically boils over into public action. The government maintains that channels for dialogue remain open, yet the current heavy-handed response from law enforcement signals a low tolerance for disruptive tactics.