French police accused of brutality against minors during protests

French police are facing accusations of using excessive force against minors during nationwide protests. The demonstrations, which began in mid-September as student revolts against the education system, have escalated into a broader movement characterized by violent clashes.

Reports highlight several specific incidents involving teenagers, including a 17-year-old hospitalized with head injuries after being struck by a baton, a 14-year-old with a smashed jaw following a tear gas grenade strike, and a 16-year-old who suffered vision loss after being hit by a rubber-bullet launcher.

Legal experts and protesters have criticized police tactics, suggesting that the use of force may be inciting further resentment rather than de-escalating tensions. While French authorities have defended the police actions as a necessity, lawyers argue that the violence against minors risks deepening the divide between the state and its citizens.