Greta Thunberg Joins Student Protests in France Amid Education Reform Demands

On Tuesday, climate activist Greta Thunberg joined student protesters in France. These protests have sparked weeks of violent confrontations with police, resulting in thousands of arrests and numerous school closures. The demonstrations, demanding education reform, have affected schools across the country.

Thunberg, the 23-year-old Swedish activist, was seen outside a high school in Saint-Denis, north of Paris. Students at this school are protesting for more teachers, better facilities, and shorter school days, as reported by Reuters. Since the protests began in September, French authorities have detained more than 6,800 individuals. While demonstrations have been peaceful in many areas, others have witnessed fires, barricades, and confrontations with riot police throughout various cities in France.

Thunberg, known for her school strikes advocating climate change action, criticized the French government’s handling of these demonstrations. She stated, “We are inspired by the young people who are demanding their basic rights,” and described the police response as “extremely violent.”

The Interior Ministry reported that approximately 161,500 people participated in marches across France on Tuesday, including 41,500 in Paris alone. Meanwhile, the Education Ministry noted that 214 schools remained closed due to the protests.

The situation has been exacerbated by political tensions, particularly with the upcoming presidential election in France next May. Far-left presidential hopeful Jean-Luc Mélenchon has accused the government of using excessive force against young demonstrators. Mélenchon joined protesters in Paris, while Marine Le Pen, the leader of the right-wing National Rally, condemned the violence perpetrated by some protestors. Le Pen has called for those responsible for damaging schools to compensate for repairs.

A recent incident has intensified criticism of the police, as a 15-year-old boy lost his hand and part of his lower arm when a police dispersal grenade detonated during a demonstration in Lens. Consequently, French authorities have suspended the use of this particular type of stun grenade.

French President Emmanuel Macron has urged restraint and dialogue as the protests continue. Students have voiced concerns about deteriorating school buildings, insufficient teachers, and overly long school days that can last from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. In response, French Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has instructed ministers to address these concerns.