Mélenchon backs student protests as starting point for 2027 push

French left-wing leader Jean-Luc Mélenchon called for supporting the high school student mobilization, viewing the October 6 protest day as a starting point and a rallying moment, while seeking to channel the movement toward the 2027 presidential election. Mélenchon praised the growing alliance between student groups, teaching unions, and labor confederations, saying this "junction of forces" breaks the isolation of his party. He proposed deploying "white helmets" or armbands to protect young protesters, a suggestion echoed by other politicians. The movement, which began September 17, has seen over 5,000 arrests and disruptions at 735 schools, with students demanding more resources and better building conditions. Damage costs are estimated in the millions of euros across several regions.