France protests flare as PM accuses radical left of exploiting unrest ahead of elections
Student protests in France are intensifying ahead of the 2027 presidential election, driven by concerns over school infrastructure and inequality. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has accused the radical-left LFI party of exploiting the unrest for political gain.
Why it matters
The protests highlight growing social instability and economic pressure in France, potentially influencing the political landscape of the upcoming presidential election.
France's student protests have intensified ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu accusing the radical-left La France Insoumise (LFI) of exploiting student anger for electoral gain.According to BBC, thousands of students have taken to the streets over overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating school infrastructure and teacher shortages. Trade unions and figures associated with France's Yellow Vest movement are expected to join further demonstrations on Saturday.“Members of [Mélenchon's] France Insoumise (LFI) are instrumentalising the high school movement for their electoral advantage,” Lecornu said on Wednesday, accusing the party of encouraging protests while condemning violence.LFI leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon has drawn support from demonstrators backing his proposals for a wealth tax, better education and lowering the voting age to 16.The protests come amid mounting pressure on France's public finances and a divided parliament.
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