French Student Unions Call for Nationwide Educational Shutdowns Amid Ongoing Anti-Government Protests

According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, French student and high school unions have announced a resumption of closures and blockades across educational institutions starting next Tuesday, marking the latest wave of anti-government protests sweeping the country.

BFMTV reported on Saturday that a union spokesperson urged students to heed the joint coalition call to blockade academic facilities. The spokesperson noted that additional blockades are scheduled for Thursday, followed by participation in nationwide demonstrations called by striking workers on November 5. Organizers expressed hope that turnout will surpass previous levels to underscore the legitimacy of their demands.

Manon Moret, General Secretary of the National Union of Students of France (UNEF), stated that the government has yet to provide a concrete response to the grievances of the youth. Saturday’s demonstrations represent the third day of nationwide protest action over the past three weeks, with approximately 350 rallies and events planned across France.

The government has classified the protests as high-risk, with officials expressing concern that demonstrators might attempt to block the Paris ring road or target government buildings. French Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez announced that roughly 70,000 police and gendarmerie officers have been deployed nationwide to ensure security. Meanwhile, in Paris, the Council of State overturned an administrative court ruling, thereby authorizing a scheduled march along the route from Bagnolet to Charenton.