More Than 250,000 Protest Education Policies Across France
More than 250,000 people marched across France on Tuesday. Students led the protests against education policies.
The French Interior Ministry estimated 256,000 people took part. The movement spread to more than 40 French cities.
Union members, parents and teachers joined the demonstrations. The movement began at one Paris-area high school in mid-September.
Since late September it has closed hundreds of French high schools. Students complained about understaffed, overcrowded and deteriorating schools.
The protests were largely peaceful. But small groups clashed with police in some cities.
Riot police used tear gas during the protests. French officials condemned what they called "extreme violence."
Klear Note — Tear gas irritates the eyes and lungs and can disperse crowds.
Key Terms 3
- Interior Ministry The French government office in charge of police and public order.
- Riot police Police trained and equipped to control large crowds and protests.
- Tear gas A gas that stings the eyes and throat to make crowds leave.