What is the French System of Government?
The French system of government is a semi-presidential system which sets a high value on the separation of powers, along with freedoms for citizens. The Constitution of 1958 sets most of the principles which govern the country out, with additions being added periodically to keep it current and useful. Although the French Constitution does not specifically include a Bill of Rights, the “Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen,” written in 1789, is mentioned in the Constitution. This document played an important role in the French revolution, spelling out rights and principles which were believed to be vital to living happily and freely. The motto of the French system of government is liberte, egalite, fraternite, which translates as “liberty, equality, brotherhood.