France protests flare as PM accuses radical left of exploiting unrest ahead of elections

Student protests are sweeping across France as frustrations rise over overcrowded classrooms and poor school facilities

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. Economist Anne-Laure Delatte told the BBC that raising taxes could help address the country's debt problem, but warned that such measures would be painful. She also said the European Central Bank could intervene if France's financial difficulties threatened other European economies.

Why the protests are gaining supportThe protests have also drawn support from parents who believe demonstrations are necessary to force authorities to address inequality in education.“France likes to speak of égalité, but the reality is the poor here are prejudiced against, while the rich benefit,” three students told the BBC, describing the gap between France’s promise of equality and their experiences.The demonstrations have also revived memories of the May 1968 student movement, which expanded into a major general strike after workers joined the marches.“No point in waiting for the presidential election in France. We want change now,” 17-year-old Lola said, reflecting the urgency among young protesters.