French Prime Minister Lecornu addresses high school protests and rising social discontent

Sébastien Lecornu, the French Prime Minister, delivered a televised speech from Matignon to calm the wave of high-school protests and the simmering social discontent. He acknowledged that the anger among students stems from genuine anxieties and pledged a more compassionate response. The address followed President Emmanuel Macron's encouragement for the government to engage directly with the public.

Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez, speaking at a recent meeting, stressed the importance of increased pedagogical effort and empathy toward the demonstrators. Lecornu's remarks marked a shift from earlier dismissive tones toward a more conciliatory stance. The speech aimed to defuse tensions and signal a willingness to listen to youth grievances.