French students call for British solidarity ahead of Bournemouth protest

French students are calling for support from young people in Britain ahead of a large protest on Friday November 20 at Bournemouth University.

A small demonstration organised by Bournemouth University’s Socialist Workers Society took place outside the university on Thursday, November 5.

The aim is to raise awareness of alleged police brutality during student protests in France.

The society stood by the bus stops outside Bournemouth University, hoping to attract more students and raise awareness on the ongoing movement.

French students at AUB (Arts University Bournemouth), Marie Gautier and Emma Leraistre Hutun, attended the gathering to discuss why they believe British students should be taking notice.

Emma has started her first year in model-making and Marie is studying animation.

Marie explained that the protests initially began over student conditions but have developed into wider political concerns.

“They’ve been going on for a little over a month now, in France and Brazil, most of Europe has followed through too,” she said.

“It started off as a student movement, so bad buildings, horrendous hours and overall poor treatment.”

She added that the movement has developed looking at “bigger problems, economic and social issues.”

Calls for British solidarity

Emma emphasised the importance of spreading awareness about the situation.

“People cannot pretend to be blind and ignore what’s really happening,” she said.

Marie also expressed frustration over what she believes is a lack of attention towards the movement in Britain.

“I feel like the United Kingdom choose to ignore it when it does concern them and their own students. They should take a stand.”

Both students argued the issues raised in France aren’t exclusive to one country.

Concerns surrounding education, economic pressure and government polices are relevant to all young people.

The students hope the upcoming protest will encourage greater participation and solidarity.

“We hope that over the next couple of weeks we grow the amount of people coming to the protest,” Emma said.

The upcoming event will provide another opportunity for student voices to be heard.

The protest is scheduled for November 20th at the university bus stops.