Students should end school blockades while negotiations over funding and conditions proceed

Student demonstrations expanded into nationwide mobilisation involving trade unions and Yellow Vests over living costs and public services. Authorities counted 550,000 participants on 17 October, against organisers' 800,000 estimate. Reuters' evening update reported approximately 1,200 arrests following widespread rioting.

High-school blockades resumed when pupils returned from the autumn break, although participation was considerably lower than before the holidays. France's Education Ministry counted 41 blockaded schools at 08:30 GMT. The renewed action tests whether the government's education offer on class sizes, facilities, staffing and university admissions can end the movement.