National Assembly (France)

National Assembly (France). The National Assembly is the lower house of the bicameral French Parliament, operating under the framework of the French Fifth Republic. It convenes at the Palais Bourbon in Paris and consists of 577 deputies, known as *députés*, who are elected to five-year terms. Alongside the upper house, the Senate, it holds legislative power, votes on the budget, and controls the actions of the Government of France.

History

The National Assembly's origins trace to the French Revolution, with the first assembly of that name formed in 1789 by representatives of the Third Estate. Throughout the 19th century, its role evolved under successive regimes including the French Consulate, the Bourbon Restoration, and the French Third Republic. The modern assembly was established by the 1958 Constitution drafted under Charles de Gaulle, which founded the French Fifth Republic and redefined the parliament's powers, notably strengthening the executive branch led by the President of France.

Powers and functions

The Assembly's primary constitutional roles are legislating, overseeing the Government of France, and voting on the finance bill. It can pass votes of no confidence, such as a motion of censure, which can force the resignation of the Prime Minister and the cabinet. While the Government of France sets much of the legislative agenda, deputies can propose laws, and the assembly debates and amends legislation. It also ratifies important declarations like states of emergency and authorizes the declaration of war.

Composition and election

The 577 deputies are elected by direct universal suffrage for five-year terms, coinciding with the presidential term, unless dissolved by the President of France. Elections use a two-round system within single-member constituencies based in departments and overseas territories. To be elected in the first round, a candidate must secure an absolute majority; otherwise, a second round is held for candidates receiving at least 12.5% of registered voters' support. This system was notably used in the 2017 and 2022 elections.

Organization and operation

The assembly is presided over by the President, an officer elected by the deputies, with Yaël Braun-Pivet currently holding the position. Work is organized through permanent standing committees, such as those for Finance and Foreign Affairs, which scrutinize legislation. The Conference of Presidents sets the agenda, while political groups must consist of at least 15 deputies. Sessions are governed by the Constitution of France and the assembly's own Rules of Procedure.

Current membership and political groups

Following the 2022 French legislative election, no single party secured an absolute majority, leading to a fragmented chamber. The largest group is the presidential coalition Ensemble Citoyens, including Renaissance, the Democratic Movement, and Horizons. Major opposition groups include the left-wing alliance NUPES, comprising La France Insoumise, the Socialist Party, the Communist Party, and The Ecologists, as well as the right-wing Republicans and the far-right National Rally.

Relationship with the Senate

The National Assembly and the Senate together constitute the French Parliament. While both houses must pass legislation, the Assembly has the final say in the event of a prolonged disagreement during the legislative shuttle, except on constitutional laws concerning the Senate. The Senate, representing territorial communities, is elected indirectly and cannot be dissolved. Joint sessions, known as Congresses, are convened at the Palace of Versailles to enact constitutional amendments.