Since 26th November, students occupy the castle of Tertre in Nantes. The building, belonging to the University, was occupied with participation, and in solidarity with, the refugees. The trigger for action was Nantes left-wing local government refusal to house refugees, many of whom are unaccompanied children, and instead leaving fully functioning building capable of giving shelter to hundreds of people, empty. Moreover, the university’s press releases hinted that, contrary to the evidence, there are no young homeless people on the streets of Nantes, the statement which outraged the students.

The occupation started towards the end of a students party held at the castle. The students, along with refugees, took over 888 m² of space spread over three floors, in order to house unaccompanied minors. Since then, the occupation met with police harassment, legal action in order to evict it, and attack from local fascists.

On Monday 4th December, the University obtained eviction order and it is expected it will execute on it soon. On Monday night, the building was attacked by fascists. At around 11pm, a group of dozen or so people charged at the building, released gas inside of its front room, hit number of people with telescopic batons, and stole a banner. In result of the attack, one person was injured. The participants of the occupation believe that since the fascists came equipped with CS gas and telescopic batons, it is a clear indication of police involvement in the attack. Many occupants fear it is a prelude to impending eviction.