Who's Behind France's Street Violence and What Youth Think of Protest Drift

French authorities have imposed partial curfews in Paris and other cities to curb escalating violence linked to student protests over education conditions, a measure experts say was designed for wartime. Young demonstrators view the restrictions as a further crackdown on rights, while the government defends them as necessary to prevent rioting and looting. The protests began a month ago in disadvantaged high schools over teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and poor facilities. Sociologist Michel Wieviorka attributes the movement's growth to social media's rapid spread of ideas and strong generational solidarity, with students from affluent areas joining in support. He notes the unrest coincides with broader grievances including the cost-of-living crisis and institutional distrust. Opinions on violence are divided among youth. Some, like Natan, condemn the destruction and helped clean up Paris streets, while others like Émilie and Romane argue peaceful protest alone is ineffective, citing the May 1968 movement and Yellow Vests as precedents where violence produced results. Wieviorka warns this perception could grow, potentially benefiting the far right as the state appears unable to maintain order.