The France protests have left more than 2,400 people under arrest after a weekend of violence and looting. The unrest has also increased pressure on the French government.
More than 500,000 people joined demonstrations across the country. Many protested against rising living costs, while students raised additional concerns.
Most demonstrations were peaceful. However, violence broke out in several cities, forcing police to respond.
According to Africanews and the Associated Press, Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu held an emergency Cabinet meeting on Monday to discuss the situation.
France protests lead to thousands of arrests
The demonstrations attracted more than half a million people nationwide.
However, clashes and looting disrupted several protests. Police arrested more than 2,400 people over the weekend.
In Paris, hundreds gathered at Place de la République on Sunday.
Police used tear gas after violence broke out in parts of the area. Looters also targeted five nearby shops.
Authorities arrested more than 350 people during Sunday’s unrest in the neighbourhood.
The violence has raised questions about how police prepared for the demonstrations.
Macron condemns violence during France protests
French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the violence and promised legal action against those responsible.
He said people who damaged property or looted businesses must face consequences.
However, Macron also recognised that many protesters had legitimate concerns.
He stressed that young people deserve a voice in decisions about their future.
The president called for dialogue to address the economic and social problems behind the protests.
Government plans talks over rising living costs
Macron announced plans for talks involving several groups across French society.
Students, teachers, employers, trade unions and local officials will join the discussions. Members of parliament will also take part.
The talks will focus on practical solutions to the concerns raised during the demonstrations.
Prime Minister Lecornu is expected to bring the groups together in the coming days.
The government hopes the discussions will help ease public frustration.
Interior minister offers to resign
Interior Minister Laurent Nuñez admitted that authorities had underestimated the size of Saturday’s demonstrations.
As crowds grew, police struggled to control the unrest.
Nuñez offered his resignation and accepted responsibility for the security response.
However, Macron refused to accept his resignation.
The decision has increased attention on the government’s handling of the protests.
France faces pressure to restore calm
The weekend’s violence has created a major challenge for the French government.
Officials must now restore calm while responding to public concerns about living costs.
Meanwhile, authorities continue to assess the damage and investigate incidents of violence and looting.
The government also plans to begin discussions with students, workers and other representatives this week.
The outcome of those talks could shape France’s response to the protests and help determine whether tensions ease.