Special Needs Assistants in Paris Protest for Civil Servant Status

Special needs education assistants in Paris took to the streets to demand civil servant status, better pay, and improved resources for inclusive education. A broad inter-union coalition called for a strike on Tuesday, June 9, highlighting the ongoing struggle for recognition and fair treatment.

The assistants, often referred to by the acronym AESH, expressed frustration with their current working conditions and the societal perception of their role. "When we say AESH, we fall in the minds of some people," one participant lamented, pointing to a lack of understanding and respect for their crucial work.

While the "civil servant status" for these assistants is currently limited to a minority, the protesters are pushing for a wider implementation. They are demanding a Category B civil servant status, which would offer greater job security and a more respectable salary. Their demands also include adequate resources to ensure a truly inclusive educational environment for all students.

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When we say AESH, we fall in the minds of some people