Click here to go to 
AngloINFO Normandy's front page
Normandy Local Reference INFOrmation
INFOrmation

Living in France - The System

Contents:
Introduction

Moving to France
Registration Procedures
The Residence Permit
Moving Goods
Moving Plants & Animals
Moving Financial Assets
Moving Cars
The Driving Licence
Finding Accommodation
Finding a School

Living in France
The System
Taxes & Charges
Shopping
Accommodation
Educational System
Transport

Social Security
E forms - General overview
General Organisation
Sickness Insurance
Family Benefits
Old Age Insurance
Unemployment Benefits

Working in France
Recruitment
Applications
Recognition of Qualifications
Conclusion of Contracts
Amendments of Contracts
Remuneration
Working Time
Vocational Training
Annual Leave
End of Employment
Employment of Women
Occupational Risks
Sexual Harassment
Representation of Workers
Work Disputes

Recognition of Diplomas
General System
Paramedical Professions
Teachers
Engineers
Lawyers
General & Specialist Doctors
Pharmacists
Dentists
Midwives
Veterinarian
General Care Nurses
Architects
The political, administrative and legal system 
The Institutions

The French Constitution enshrines the separation of powers (executive, legislative and judicial).

France is a parliamentary republic. The executive power is exercised by the President of the Republic and the Government.

The President of the Republic is elected by all French citizens by means of universal suffrage. The mandate lasts for five years and can be renewed once.

The Government acts under the authority of the Prime Minister, appointed by the President of the Republic. It determines and pursues the country’s policies.

The executive power implements laws and pursues national policy. To this end, it has the power to adopt regulations and is responsible for administration and the armed forces. It may have recourse to means of constraint with respect to the legislative body (e.g. dissolution of one of the chambers).

The Parliament embodies the legislative power and consists of two assemblies: the Assemblée Nationale (National Assembly) and the Senate. It is responsible for drafting and adopting laws. It also controls the executive power.

The judicial power applies the law to settle disputes between individuals or between the State and the latter. Its independence is of paramount importance since this is essential to ensure impartiality. 

Lastly, the Constitution also defines the way in which local authorities are organised. It indicates the respective powers of the State and of local institutions.

Local Authorities

Each region is administered by a regional “préfet” or prefect, who represents the authority of the State, and by a regional council, elected by means of universal suffrage, the president of which has executive power.

Each department is administered by a departmental prefect, who represents the authority of the State, and by a regional council, elected by means of universal suffrage, the president of which has executive power.

Each municipality is administered by a mayor, his/her deputies and the municipal council. They are all elected by means of universal suffrage.

Source: European Union
© European Communities, 1995-2006
Reproduction is authorised.

myAngloINFO

· Sign in

· Become a member NOW!


Stay INFOrmed! with our weekly newsletter.

Cabinet Faudais
Established in 1913, we offer a full professional service with English speaking agents in 6 agencies. View our website and discover our selection of character stone cottages, farms, modern or ancient houses and chateaux throughout Manche and Calvados Find out more...
Reno - Peter Coppen
General builder for renovations around St. Lo in Manche. Kitchens, bathrooms, loft conversions, electrical work, carpentry. Complete renovations, to minor works. All work carried out by quality, registered tradesmen. 10 yr decennale insurance. Find out more...
Bocage Renovations
Offering full project management plus stone work, rendering, carpentry, roofing, plumbing, electrical, drylining, insulation, floor and wall tiling, flooring and concrete works, septic tanks and filtration beds. Based in Le Tourneur (14) Find out more...
Mantilly Construction
Complete installation of Fosses Toutes Eaux to current French standard (DTU64.1). Free quotes and the benefit of over 40 years' experience. All types of groundworks undertaken. Based in Mantilly (61). Phone and speak to John. Find out more...
Picture perfect
Bunkers
Bunkers
Lined up at the Longues-sur-Mer Battery

^ Top of Page ^


Page generated at 06:30; Saturday 21 November, 2009
Copyright © 2000-2009 AngloINFO Limited. All rights reserved. Privacy Policy, Terms of Use, About, Advertising, Contact.
AngloINFO: Everyday life in France, in English · la vie quotidienne en France, en anglais

Find out more about AngloINFO in France...