France to close up to 500 schools on Monday over student protests
French authorities are closing up to 500 schools following violent clashes between riot police and student protesters. The demonstrations, which began over education standards and infrastructure, have resulted in significant property damage and injuries to staff.
Why it matters
The escalation of student protests and the government's response highlight growing social unrest and potential political instability in France.
Image source, Reuters Image caption, French riot police were deployed to the manage the protests on Friday
Up to 500 schools across France will be partially or totally closed on Monday after clashes between riot police and student protesters in recent days, the French education minister said on Sunday.
Lessons will be "totally or partly suspended" in some "400 to 500" high schools as security conditions "have not been fulfilled", Édouard Geffray said.
He also said 24 schools had been "burned or ransacked" since the start of the protests.
Thousands of students have been demonstrating over education standards and the protests, which started last week, have spread from Paris to other cities, including Montpellier, Nantes and Marseille.
High school pupils and others have objected to a lack of teachers, overcrowded classrooms and run-down buildings.
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