Photos: French students protest, public workers strike before budget cuts

French high school students have blockaded dozens of schools and public sector workers have gone on strike, protesting planned budget cuts before next year’s presidential election. Tuesday’s action comes seven months before the vote and just two days before the government is due to unveil its draft 2027 budget, with opinion polls consistently reflecting deep dissatisfaction with President Emmanuel Macron and his centre-right government. Student protests have gathered pace in recent days over overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages. The country’s Ministry of National Education said more than 330 high schools – just under one in 10 – were affected. There were 40 arrests on Tuesday and 10 people – students and staff – were wounded.