France’s Far-Left Candidate Backs Gen Z School Protests

French far-left leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon supports Gen Z school protests, calling for lower voting age and university reforms.

Editorial Desk

October 12, 2026 One Min Read

POLICY WIRE — Paris, France — French far-left presidential candidate Jean-Luc Mélenchon on Sunday praised the nationwide high school protest movement, which has drawn thousands of students demanding better resources and fairer treatment in schools.

The protests, fueled by deteriorating school conditions, teacher shortages, and inequality in underprivileged areas, have gained momentum across France. Mélenchon, who is running for president, called for lowering the voting age to 16 and eliminating selective university admissions, arguing that education should not be treated as a commodity.

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Mélenchon also criticized U.S. President Donald Trump and NATO, advocating for a more independent foreign policy for France. The protests have led to over 6,600 arrests and hundreds of injuries, but they have energized young voters, who could play a crucial role in next year’s presidential election.

Reporting by Policy-Wire (PW)

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