Amnesty International accused French authorities of using excessive force against high school protesters and raised concern over more than 3,000 arrests in three days, many involving minors. The rights group called for dialogue and de-escalation rather than the use of weapons as students demand better learning conditions.

“They must be protected, not beaten with batons,” Amnesty said of the students. It acknowledged that some protesters had engaged in violence, calling that “unacceptable,” but added: “But even in these situations, including during arrests, the use of force must remain proportionate.”

Education Minister Edouard Geffray told BFMTV that 1,207 high schools had been disrupted or blocked at some point during the movement. Students are calling for more teachers, better equipment and school renovations, with grievances including overcrowded classrooms, long school days and deteriorating buildings.