Azerbaijan Parliament expresses concern over French protest violence

The Parliament of Azerbaijan (Milli Majlis) has issued a statement expressing deep concern regarding mass protests and alleged human rights violations in France during September and October 2026. The unrest, driven by dissatisfaction with the education system, rising living costs, and social issues, saw approximately 550,000 participants in demonstrations on October 17.

The Azerbaijani parliament specifically highlighted reports of police violence against minors, noting the use of batons, tear gas, and rubber bullets against schoolchildren. The statement cited specific incidents, including a 15-year-old boy in Lens losing a hand and a 17-year-old girl in Mulhouse losing sight in one eye due to police intervention.

Furthermore, the Milli Majlis raised concerns regarding the detention of approximately 2,400 people, restrictions on the freedom of movement, and bans on assemblies. The parliament emphasized that the state's obligation to protect the lives and health of children cannot be overridden by the need to maintain public order and called for independent, transparent investigations into these incidents.