Viry-Chatillon, France – French Prime Minister Gabriel Attal unveiled new measures on Thursday aimed at addressing rising teenage violence in and around schools, a pressing issue as the government faces challenges on security ahead of European elections. The country has been unsettled by recent incidents of schoolchildren being attacked by their peers, including the tragic death of Shemseddine, 15, in a brutal assault near Paris.
A surge in violence among adolescents has prompted concerns, with far-right parties criticizing Attal for not prioritizing security measures effectively. In response, Attal emphasized the need for a stronger authority to tackle the problem of youth violence. He highlighted alarming statistics showing a significant increase in teenage involvement in assault cases, drug trafficking, and armed robberies, compared to the general population.
To address these issues, the government’s new measures include expanding mandatory school attendance for college-aged children to all days of the week, from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. Attal emphasized the importance of being in school during the day for learning and personal development. These actions come as Attal marks 100 days in office since his appointment by President Emmanuel Macron to bring about positive changes in the administration.
In the wake of these efforts, the government also aims to instill values of respect and discipline among young people to prevent further instances of violence. The challenges posed by extremist influences and criminal activities among adolescents require a comprehensive approach to ensure a safe and supportive environment within schools and communities.
Attal’s address in Viry-Chatillon, the site of Shemseddine’s tragic death, underscores the urgency and gravity of the issue at hand. By taking decisive measures to promote safety and security in educational settings, the government aims to restore public confidence and address the growing concerns surrounding teenage violence. The upcoming European elections provide a critical backdrop for these actions as political parties vie for support and strive to address pressing social issues affecting the youth in France.