Paris:A majority of French citizens consider the demands made by high school students in nationwide protests to be legitimate. More than half of the population approves of these protests, as revealed by an Elabe poll conducted for French broadcaster BFMTV.

According to Anadolu Agency, the poll results show that 72% of respondents find the demands legitimate, with 28% considering them completely legitimate and 44% viewing them as rather legitimate. The protests, which began in mid-September, were sparked by complaints about staff shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and inadequate school facilities. These protests have now spread to several cities across France.

While 55% of the public supports the student mobilization, the movement has encountered some violent incidents, including fires and attacks on property, staff, and police. Nonetheless, 35% of respondents disapprove of the protests, and 10% remain indifferent.

Regarding the future of the protests, 55% of respondents believe the mobilization should come to an end. In contrast, 27% favor continuing the protests at their current level, while 17% support escalating the actions with more extensive blockades. This sentiment varies among age groups, with 33% of those aged 18 to 24 wanting the movement to end, 38% preferring it to continue, and 28% advocating for escalation.

Support is notably higher among parents of high school students, with 71% backing the protests. The Education Ministry reported that 459 schools experienced class suspensions, a decrease from 891 the previous day. In addition, student and youth unions have called for further demonstrations in Paris and other cities.