At the beginning of October, France erupted into nationwide protests, led primarily by students. These demonstrations and blockades of educational institutions are being organised as a response to educational underfunding. The cause has gained international attention and support but is yet to see a resolution. What do these protests tell us about student activism?
The Protests in France
Some of the issues cited by protesters include long school days in overcrowded classrooms with no air conditioning and a shortage of teachers. Many acknowledge the failures of Macron’s government and a desire for institutional change.
The protests have been met with force from French authorities, who have used weapons such as stun grenades and pepper spray in an attempt to de-escalate them. The protesters have yet to be offered a solution, though politicians have condemned the violence that has occurred.
However, this non-action is telling and echoes the suggestion from the protesters that there is a need for governmental reform. Citizens of all ages have begun to join the students, including the mayor of Saint-Denis, Bally Bagayoko.
What does this tell us about student activism?
At the core of student activism is a feeling of disconnect between young people and those in power. Often, issues that directly concern young people are dismissed as petty or less important than others and do not receive any resolution.
This attitude is what makes student activism so important. As the French demonstrations have shown, student activism can bring awareness to social injustices that directly affect younger generations and drive change by putting pressure on the government.
The recent Reclaim the Night march through Stirling is exemplary of how activism reflects the feelings of different social groups and emphasises the need for change.
Students especially can change how their future will look through the power of activism. At this point in life, they have nothing to lose but everything to gain from social activism, and it’s important to make their voices heard when it seems no one wants to listen.
Feature Image Credit: Tess Bowen
