French high school students are preparing to intensify their campaign for better conditions, with fresh demonstrations scheduled for October 13 as they seek to sustain a movement that began in mid-September.
The planned rallies could test whether the protests still have enough momentum to challenge the government, which believes the unrest is gradually subsiding.
On October 9, France’s education ministry reported a significant decline in school blockades and gatherings outside lycées, where students typically complete their secondary education between the ages of 15 and 18. The ministry said more than 96 per cent of the schools were open that day.
However, the prospect of renewed student demonstrations comes as authorities remain alert to other signs of public discontent. Online activists have called for protests on October 24 over the rising cost of living, raising concerns about a possible wider wave of demonstrations.
The planned action has revived memories of France’s Yellow Vest movement, which erupted in 2018 over a proposed fuel tax increase.
The demonstrations grew into a nationwide campaign marked by mass rallies and violent clashes with police, creating one of the most significant political challenges of President Emmanuel Macron’s first term.
With fresh student protests looming and cost-of-living grievances still fuelling public anger, the French government faces the challenge of containing renewed unrest before it develops into a broader movement.
