PARIS: Amnesty International France has raised concerns over alleged police violence against French high school students during protests seeking improved learning conditions.
In a statement on X Thursday, the rights group said images showing students being subjected to police violence were “extremely concerning,” noting that many protesters are minors who should be protected.
Amnesty also expressed concern over arrests while acknowledging that some protesters had engaged in violence, which it described as unacceptable. It stressed that any police use of force must remain proportionate.
The organization reported that a 14-year-old boy was struck in the jaw by a grenade Monday, causing him to lose several teeth. It said grenade launchers should only be used during widespread violence when no other means are available and should never be fired directly at people.
Amnesty also reported that a 14-year-old girl was allegedly grabbed violently by the neck by a police officer outside her high school Tuesday, saying chokehold techniques are prohibited for law enforcement.
The group cited 164 arrests Monday, 440 Tuesday and 625 Wednesday since the blockades began. It called for dialogue and de-escalation, saying young people protesting peacefully should be heard rather than repressed.
Amnesty France Raises Alarm Over Police Violence
