Thunberg Joins French Student Protests Amid National Tension

Climate activist Greta Thunberg joined student protests in France amid recent clashes with police. The protests, involving thousands of arrests and school closures, focus on demands for education reform.

Thunberg, aged 23, appeared at a high school in Saint-Denis, near Paris. Students called for more teachers, improved facilities, and shorter school hours. French authorities reported over 6,800 detentions since the protests started in September. Though many protests were peaceful, some involved fires, barricades, and confrontations with riot police.

Citing police actions as ‘extremely violent,’ Thunberg stated, ‘We are inspired by the young people demanding their basic rights.’

On Tuesday, around 161,500 people participated in marches across France, with 41,500 in Paris. The Education Ministry noted the closure of 214 schools. Many students demand better learning conditions, including the hiring of substitute teachers and increased resources.

Former President Donald Trump commented, attributing the unrest to mass migration and religious influence, not school conditions. Meanwhile, the demonstrations reveal a significant political issue in the lead-up to France’s presidential election in May. Far-left candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon criticized the government’s use of force, while Marine Le Pen condemned violence and urged accountability for school damages.

An incident where a 15-year-old boy was injured by a police grenade triggered further criticism, leading to a suspension of such grenades by French authorities. President Emmanuel Macron emphasized the need for restraint and dialogue.

Protesters raise concerns over aging school infrastructure, teacher shortages, and long school hours from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has directed ministers to consider these issues.