Protests in France over school conditions have sparked widespread closures and clashes involving students, teachers, and police, following large demonstrations the day before that drew tens of thousands.

Estimates for the prior day’s turnout ranged from about 266,000 to as many as 450,000 participants, according to different figures cited by the interior ministry and organizers.

Across regions and in Paris, thousands of demonstrators—students, parents, teachers, university students, and unionists—gathered to demand more resources for education.

France’s budget talks continued with Lecornu inviting PS MPs and Senators to a meeting to negotiate a compromise on the budget texts that will be presented to the cabinet, signaling ongoing willingness to negotiate.

Lecornu sent a letter to PS deputies and senators inviting them to meet and discuss compromises, echoing a spirit of negotiation seen in 2026.

He stressed increased transparency and a readiness to negotiate on budget texts, aiming for progress similar to prior compromises.

Lecornu emphasized reform of Parcoursup, arguing those calling for its removal do not offer a replacement and signaling focus on simplifying and clarifying the system.

The government proposed maintaining fiscal stability while reducing the deficit, framing the adjustment as a way to avoid deeper future cuts.

A 1.2 billion euro increase in education spending was included in the forthcoming budget, responding to demands from lycées and students.

Education remains a priority in negotiations, with finance officials tying the additional funding to the ongoing consultations and to addressing school priorities.

The announcement followed a meeting at the Élysée, suggesting political pressure to ease tensions without overturning security measures.

Police interventions against vandalism and fires were defended, with officials noting challenges from dispersed groups and pledging to explain actions and potential errors.