As protests demanding improved educational conditions among high school students spread across France, the mayor of Saint-Denis, Valérie Pécresse, has garnered attention for standing between police and students during a demonstration.
According to Reuters, Mayor Pécresse participated in a student protest in Paris on October 6, where she intervened as police attempted to advance on the demonstrators. Video footage showed Pécresse demanding that police cease their actions while shielding the students. Subsequently, it was reported that police used tear gas against the protesters, including Pécresse.
Pécresse, a mother of four, stated, "The high school students in the street could be my children. It is my responsibility to stand with them."
The police response to the students has sparked significant controversy.
The Guardian reported that there have been several serious injuries among students due to police equipment during recent protests. On October 5, in the northern city of Lens, a 15-year-old student lost a hand from a flash grenade fired by police, while another 16-year-old student suffered severe injuries, losing an eye. Following these incidents, police announced a halt to the use of flash and riot grenades. An investigation into the police's excessive use of force is also underway.
The protests began in response to complaints about a lack of teachers, overcrowded classrooms, outdated school facilities, and long class hours. As the demonstrations spread nationwide, the French government has begun to formulate a response.
According to Yonhap News, French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has announced that he is reviewing five measures, including replacing absent teachers, improving school facilities, adjusting school schedules, enhancing the university admission support platform, and gathering student feedback, with the first set of measures expected to be announced by the end of this month.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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