French Institutions

The President of the Republic

Palais de l’Élysée (Elysée Palace) © Présidence de la République

The Head of State is elected for a five-year term by direct universal suffrage.

Emmanuel Macron became the eigth President of the Fifth Republic on May 14, 2017.

The President of the Republic appoints the Prime Minister and, on the latter’s recommendation, appoints the other members of the government (Article 8 of the Constitution).

He presides over the Council of Ministers, promulgates Acts of Parliament and is Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces. He may dissolve the National Assembly and, in an emergency, exercise special powers (article 16).

Learn more by visiting the official website of the President of the French Republic.

Prime Minister and the Government

Hôtel de Matignon

Under the direction of the Prime Minister, the Government defines and carries out national policy. It is answerable to the Parliament (Article 20). The Prime Minister steers the Government’s action and ensures the implementation of legislation (Article 21). Edouard Philippe was appointed Prime Minister on May 15, 2017.

Learn more by visiting the official website of the French Government.

Parliament

The Parliament is composed of two assemblies:

Sénat

The Senate is elected by indirect universal suffrage for a six-year term. The house is renewable by one-third every three years.

Assemblée Nationale

The members of the National Assembly (deputies) are elected by direct universal suffrage for a five-year term.

The two assemblies supervise the Government and draw up and pass legislation. In the event of disagreement on a law, the National Assembly makes the final decision.

Learn more by visiting the official website of the Senate and the official website of the National Assembly.