Are student protests being manipulated ahead of France's presidential election?
France is facing widespread student protests that are being linked to broader economic grievances and upcoming presidential elections. Government officials have suggested that these movements are being manipulated by political factions, while activists argue the protests are a genuine response to the cost-of-living crisis.
Why it matters
The situation reflects the ongoing political instability and social friction in France, which could significantly impact the upcoming presidential election.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, The French prime minister has accused the radical left of weaponising the high school movement for electoral advantage
The French passion for protest is legendary in Europe.
Over the last few years, we have regularly witnessed farmers angry about costly regulations lobbing manure at local mayoral offices, while masked youths periodically hurl homemade grenades at riot police in disadvantaged city suburbs.
For over three weeks now, thousands of students have barricaded entry to high schools and taken their grievances to the streets.
This Saturday, hundreds of new demonstrations have been announced across France.
Students are expected to be joined by workers' unions and key figures from the so-called "yellow vest" movement.
France's prime minister, Sébastien Lecornu, suggested this week that student anger was being manipulated as politics heats up ahead of next year's presidential election.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in