France's Fifth Republic: The Current Constitutional System

The Fifth Republic (est. 4 October 1958) is France's current regime, replacing the unstable Fourth Republic (1946–1958). Key features:

• Strong Presidency: Directly elected (since 1962), 5-year term (since 2000, was 7). Appoints PM, can dissolve National Assembly, emergency powers (Art. 16), commander-in-chief.
• Prime Minister & Government: Responsible to Parliament; PM directs administration.
• Parliament: Bicameral (National Assembly + Senate); Assembly can topple government (censure).
• Constitutional Council: Reviews constitutionality of laws.

Designed by Charles de Gaulle for executive stability; has provided durable democracy with alternating left/right majorities. Revisions: 1962 (direct election), 2000 (5-yr term), 2008 (term limits, parliamentary powers).