comparative politics- france

Q: What type of political system does France have?

A: Semi-presidential, unitary system (centered in Paris)

What are the two chambers of the French legislature?

National Assembly (Lower House) and Senate (Upper House)

how many national assembly

577

how many senate

348

Who is the head of state in France?

president

Q: Who is the head of government in France?

A: The Prime Minister

Q: How is the Prime Minister chosen?

A: Appointed by the President; not a member of the National Assembly (Incompatibility Clause)

Q: What are some key powers of the French President?

A: Handles foreign affairs, defense, economic policy, cabinet control, legislative reconsideration, and can dissolve the National Assembly.

Q: What is cohabitation in French politics?

A: When the President and Prime Minister are from different political parties.

How long is the term for members of the National Assembly?

5 years

: How is the National Assembly elected?

A: Direct vote using a dual-ballot system with a 12.5% vote threshold

Q: How long is the term for Senators in France?

6 years

Q: How are Senators chosen?

A: Indirectly elected by “big electors” (electoral college)

Q: What is a “vote of no confidence”?

A: A parliamentary vote that can remove the Prime Minister

Q: What is a “blocked vote”?

A: When the Prime Minister requires the legislature to vote on a bill without amendments

Q: How is the President of France elected?

A: Popular vote, two-round system with a runoff if no majority is achieved

Q: What electoral system is used for the National Assembly?

A: Single Member Districts with a dual-ballot majority system

Q: What type of party system does France have?

A: Multi-party, fragmented system

Q: What is France's political culture like?

A: Participant, convergent, protest-driven

Q: What is the role of the Constitutional Council?

A: Prior review of legislation; 9 justices with 9-year terms

Q: How are members of the Constitutional Council appointed?

A: 3 by President, 3 by Senate, 3 by National Assembly

Q: How is the French bureaucracy described?

A: Structured, with disciplined yet fragmented interest groups