France Faces Major Child Abuse Scandal in State Schools

France is facing a major scandal after police in Paris launched investigations into more than 100 allegations of violence, sexual assault and rape of children in state-run kindergartens and primary schools. The accusations are directed at school supervisors responsible for children during lunch breaks, recess and afternoon activities.

The prosecutor's office is conducting investigations across 84 kindergartens, around 20 primary schools and ten daycare centers. Lawyers say the cases include allegations of rape of three- and four-year-olds.

Parents' associations say they have fought for years to have the allegations taken seriously by authorities. They are particularly critical of the system for hiring school supervisors, who often work without professional training and are frequently paid by the hour.

Allegations include physical violence, humiliation, denial of food and sexual abuse. In one case, a three-year-old boy was allegedly raped by a supervisor who had previously been transferred to another school following complaints of aggressive behavior toward children.

In Paris, the trial of a guard accused of sexually abusing five children aged between three and five is due to begin next week. In a separate case, a man accused of abusing nine ten-year-old girls is awaiting sentencing.

(guardian, bak)