Key Facts

• Protests started over school staffing and funding but have grown to include general economic and social frustrations.
• Youth unemployment in France is about 20.6%, higher than in Germany, the U.S., and the U.K.
• The 2018 Yellow Vest protesters have joined current demonstrations, linking education issues with inequality and government policies.
• France’s government debt compared to its economy (debt-to-GDP ratio) is concerning and borrowing costs are rising.
• About $100 billion is spent annually on education, with over 25% going to pensions for retired teachers.
• Nobel Prize-winning economist Paul Krugman described France’s financial path as unsustainable.
• The government has proposed budget cuts of €54 billion ($60.5 billion) but faces political challenges in passing them.
• The upcoming presidential election adds tension to the current social and economic situation.