More than 1,300 people have been injured and around 8,000 individuals detained during weeks of student protests across France, as demonstrations over education conditions continued despite government measures aimed at easing tensions.

French Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu told the Senate that the unrest has resulted in injuries to 937 police officers and gendarmes, 149 education staff members and 248 students, describing the violence as a serious challenge for public order.

According to figures reported by French media citing the Justice Ministry, approximately 8,000 people have been detained since the protests began, with about 85 per cent of those detained being minors. Authorities have also ordered 26 people to remain in custody pending further legal proceedings.

Protests spread nationwide

The demonstrations, which began in the Île-de-France region in late September, have spread to more than 30 cities across the country, drawing support from university students, teachers, labour unions and parents. Protesters are demanding improvements in school infrastructure, smaller class sizes, more teachers and reforms to France's university admissions system.

While many demonstrations have remained peaceful, clashes have erupted in several cities, particularly in Paris and Nantes, where police used tear gas and other crowd-control measures after violence and damage were reported.

Government under pressure

The protests have intensified pressure on the French government ahead of the autumn school holidays and amid broader economic and political challenges.

Authorities have strengthened security around educational institutions and continued deploying thousands of police officers, while government officials insist they are prepared to engage in dialogue with students but have warned that violence against schools and public property will not be tolerated.

Student organizations, however, say demonstrations will continue until concrete measures are taken to address long-standing problems in France's education system, arguing that recent government pledges have failed to meet their demands.(ILKHA)