More than 400 schools in France to be closed on Monday as more protests planned

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Published: 2026-10-04T15:18:36.759Z • Permanent link

French Education Minister Jean-Michel Blanquer announced yesterday that more than 400 schools in France will be closed or partially closed on Monday due to ongoing student protests. The decision comes after weeks of unrest, with student groups calling for better living conditions, reduced class sizes, and improved support for students with disabilities. The protests have been marked by clashes between police and demonstrators, with reports of burnt or ransacked schools and injured staff members. According to official figures, 24 schools have been damaged, and 78 staff members have been injured.

The protests have been led by student groups from across France, including the National Union of Students, which has called for a nationwide strike on Monday. The union has also accused the government of failing to address the root causes of the protests, including poverty, inequality, and lack of resources for schools. The government has responded by promising to increase funding for education and introduce measures to improve living conditions for students. However, many critics argue that the government's proposals do not go far enough to address the underlying issues driving the protests.

The protests have also sparked concerns about the impact on students, particularly those with special needs, who rely on schools for support and care. The National Union of Students has called for increased funding for special education programs and more resources for schools to support students with disabilities. The government has promised to increase funding for these programs, but many critics argue that the proposed measures do not go far enough to address the needs of students with disabilities.

The ongoing protests in France have significant implications for the global education sector. Companies such as Pearson, McGraw-Hill, and McGraw-Hill Education have operations in France, and the protests have raised concerns about the potential impact on their business. Research communities and policymakers have also taken notice, with many arguing that the protests highlight the need for greater investment in education and improved support for students. The European Commission has also weighed in, with a spokesperson saying that the protests demonstrate the need for greater investment in education and infrastructure.

The protests also have broader implications for the global economy, with many experts arguing that improved education outcomes can have significant long-term benefits for economic growth and development. According to a report by the OECD, improved education outcomes can lead to increased economic growth, reduced poverty, and improved social mobility. The report also highlights the need for greater investment in education and improved support for students, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The protests in France are part of a larger pattern of student unrest in Europe. In recent years, students have taken to the streets in countries such as Greece, Portugal, and Spain to protest against austerity measures, high tuition fees, and poor living conditions. The protests have also sparked concerns about the impact on education and the economy, with many experts arguing that the measures taken by governments are exacerbating the problem.