French students called to new protests despite government conciliation

French high school and university students were called out to protest again on Thursday, according to France 24. The call comes two days after a large student turnout to demand increased funding for schools. France 24 reported that the French government has offered a series of conciliatory gestures in an effort to end the growing crisis. [1]

Footage shared widely on social media showed Bally Bagayoko, the mayor of the French town of Saint-Denis, standing directly in front of police officers, France 24 reported. The fresh calls for action follow weeks of rising tensions in educational institutions across the country. [1]

Demonstrations and blockades by high school students began in the Créteil academy on 21 September 2026 before spreading across France, as FTMQ News reported earlier. Students cited missing teachers, class sizes of up to 35 pupils, run-down facilities, and stress related to the Parcoursup application system, alongside extreme classroom temperatures during summer heatwaves. [2][3]

The unrest escalated early in October to include arson, attacks on school staff, and clashes with law enforcement. The French Interior Ministry reported that 1,949 people were arrested on 1 October 2026, while up to 500 high schools were forced to close during the nationwide walkouts. [2][3]