History of Europe

How is the French government set up?

Executive Branch

* The President of France is the head of state and of the government.

* The President is elected by direct popular vote for a five-year term, and can serve a maximum of two consecutive terms.

* The President appoints the Prime Minister and the other members of the government, who are responsible for carrying out the policies of the President.

* The Prime Minister is the head of government and presides over the meetings of the Council of Ministers.

Legislative Branch

* The Parliament of France is the highest legislative body in the country.

* The Parliament is made up of two houses: the National Assembly and the Senate.

* The National Assembly is composed of 577 members, who are elected by direct popular vote for a five-year term.

* The Senate is made up of 348 members, who are elected by indirect vote for a six-year term.

Judicial Branch

* The judicial branch of the government of France is independent of the executive and legislative branches.

* The highest judicial body in France is the Court of Cassation, which serves as the final court of appeal in civil and criminal cases.

* Other important courts include the Council of State, which hears cases involving administrative disputes, and the Constitutional Council, which interprets the Constitution and oversees the legality of elections.