Gruesome injuries throw spotlight on France's policing of high school protests
Summary
High school protests over school funding in France have turned violent, with several teenagers suffering severe injuries blamed on police weapons and arrests. The interior minister has suspended use of one stun grenade model against high schoolers as an investigation continues into alleged excessive force.
Key Points
- Teenagers protesting for more funding and replacement teachers in France have faced mass arrests and police tactics criticized as excessive.
- A 14-year-old boy suffered catastrophic jaw and tooth injuries after being hit by a police tear gas grenade, while other teens in Lens and Tours were also badly injured.
- Interior Minister Laurent Nunez suspended use of one stun grenade model against high schoolers after concerns it may have caused a teenager’s hand to be torn off.
- Lawyers and rights campaigners warn the crackdown could leave young people disillusioned with the Republic and its promises.
