Teenager Loses Hand as Nationwide High-School Protests and Clashes Intensify in France

A 15-year-old high-school student lost his hand and part of his lower arm after picking up a police stun grenade that detonated during clashes in Lens. The incident occurred as student-led protests over underfunding, overcrowding, and dilapidation entered their third week, preceding a planned national demonstration.

Francois-Xavier Lauch, prefect of Pas-de-Calais, stated that between 200 and 250 protesters had been throwing objects at police officers during the confrontation. Rights groups have criticized police for using heavy-handed tactics, including batons, tear gas, and flash-ball guns against minors. Among several investigations into police methods, authorities are reviewing the case of a 16-year-old who suffered an eye injury from rubber bullets.

The unrest has heightened political tensions six months before an election to replace President Emmanuel Macron. The government and the far-right National Rally, led by Marine Le Pen, have accused hard-left France Unbowed politicians and mayors of stoking the demonstrations. The LFI, headed by Jean-Luc Melenchon, has denied these accusations, instead accusing the government of politicizing the issue and neglecting students' interests.

The protests have also placed financial pressure on the government, contributing to a spike in the yield on France's 10-year bonds. Between 400 and 500 high schools have been closed or partially closed as demonstrations spread from Paris suburbs nationwide. Government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon emphasized that restoring order is the primary goal, while Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported that 24 schools have been burned or ransacked and 78 teaching staff injured.

Security officials remain concerned that Tuesday's organized demonstrations in central Paris could see further violence as far-left and anarchist groups attempt to infiltrate the events. Meanwhile, Sophie Binet, head of the CGT labour union, announced that union members would attend the protests to protect students from what she termed an unprecedented crackdown.