Student protests across France escalated this week into violent confrontations with police. Authorities recorded 1,949 arrests on Thursday, October 1. More than 300 police officers, gendarmes and firefighters were injured.

The protests began on September 21 at a school in Creteil. Students are protesting overcrowded classrooms, teacher shortages and crumbling buildings. The 2026 budget eliminates 4,018 teaching posts, according to reports.

On October 2, about 400 of France’s 3,700 lycees were closed by prefects. Many switched to distance learning. The education ministry said 564 establishments faced actions or disruptions. Education Minister Edouard Geffray said 1,207 schools were disrupted on Thursday. More than 100 suffered severe damage this week.

Fires, mortar fire and clashes continued. In Marseille, a fire engine was looted and set on fire outside a school. University students have joined the movement, blocking around 30 campuses.

The government blames ultra-left groups for hijacking the protests. Student unions deny this. A union called a strike for Tuesday in support of the students’ demands.

Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin told prosecutors to seek parental liability for damage caused by children.