France protests: Massive crowds gather near Eiffel Tower amid education, budget unrest

More than 300,000 people took to the streets across France amid a growing wave of protests over education conditions, public-sector funding and proposed budget measures, with the movement drawing students, teachers, firefighters and other public-sector workers. The 300,000 figure was reported by the CGT union for a nationwide public-sector mobilisation on September 29, while France's Interior Ministry put the turnout at 206,000.

The unrest has been driven in part by a student-led movement that began in the Paris region and quickly spread across the country. High-school students have protested over teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, deteriorating school buildings, long school hours and what they describe as inadequate investment in education.

The demonstrations have escalated in several cities, with students blocking school entrances, while clashes with police, fires and damage have been reported. By October 1, more than 1,000 high schools had been affected by strikes or protests, according to France's Education Ministry.

Videos circulating online have shown large crowds and smoke flares during demonstrations in Paris, including scenes near the Eiffel Tower. However, reports indicate that the protests are taking place across multiple cities and are rooted primarily in concerns over education and public services rather than being limited to a single demonstration in the capital.

The government has acknowledged that some of the students' grievances are legitimate but has condemned violent incidents. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu has held crisis meetings as the protests intensified, while the authorities have increased security measures around affected schools.

The unrest comes alongside wider opposition to proposed budget measures and public-sector pay policies. Trade unions have joined the mobilisation, adding to pressure on the French government as it grapples with concerns over public spending and the country's broader fiscal position.

With further demonstrations planned, the protests have emerged as a major challenge for the French government, combining long-standing concerns about the education system with broader anger over public-sector funding and budget policy.