The student union (Union Étudiante / USL) reported that up to 90% of universities and 1,800 high schools (lycéens) were blocked or disrupted during nationwide days of action. Meanwhile, government and education ministry figures reported lower total counts of affected or partially suspended school sites.

Protesters are demanding increased education funding, the mass hiring of teachers, fixes for rundown/overheated buildings, and relief from proposed budget restrictions.

The student-led movement has gained support from teachers, parents, and labor unions (such as the CGT), drawing in broader public sector frustrations over economic and austerity measures.

Demonstrations in cities like Paris, Lyon, Strasbourg, and Marseille have occasionally turned violent, resulting in property damage, tear gas deployment, and multiple arrests.