France's Edouard Geffray Closes Schools Amid Protests

France is set to close between 400 and 500 secondary schools on Monday as student protests over education conditions escalate. Education Minister Edouard Geffray announced the closures, citing security concerns ahead of planned demonstrations on Tuesday.

Since the protests began on September 17, 24 schools have been damaged, and 78 education workers have been injured. Geffray noted that the number of affected schools would mirror Friday's figures but expressed hope for a gradual return to classes.

The protests, which began in Paris, have been fueled by complaints regarding teacher shortages, long school hours, and poor facilities. Some protests have turned violent, leading to clashes with security forces, who have used tear gas and batons.

Geffray accused far-left activists of exacerbating tensions. More than 5,000 arrests have occurred, with minors making up 85% of those detained.

Amnesty International criticized police actions, urging authorities to allow peaceful demonstrations.