French National Assembly facts for kids
The National Assembly (in French, Assemblée nationale) is a very important part of the government in France. It is one of the two main groups that make up the Parliament of France. Think of Parliament as the country's main law-making body. The other group is called the Senate.
The National Assembly has 577 members. These members are called députés, which means deputies. Each deputy is chosen by people living in a specific area, called a constituency. Deputies are elected using a special voting method called a two-rounds system. This means if no one wins enough votes in the first round, there's a second vote.
A president leads the National Assembly. This president is usually from the largest political group. Other vice-presidents from different political groups help them. Deputies serve for five years. However, the President of France can decide to end their term early. This means calling for a new election. But the President cannot do this if they already did it in the past year.
The official home of the National Assembly is the Palais Bourbon. This famous building is in Paris, right next to the Seine river.
Contents
What is the National Assembly?
The National Assembly is like a big meeting place where elected officials work. Their main job is to discuss and vote on new laws for France. They also keep an eye on what the government is doing. This helps make sure the government is working for the people.
How Laws Are Made
When a new law is proposed, it often starts in the National Assembly. Deputies discuss the idea and suggest changes. They then vote on it. If it passes, it usually goes to the Senate for their review. Both groups must agree for a new law to be created.
Who are the Deputies?
The 577 deputies are the voices of the French people. Each deputy represents a different part of France. They bring the ideas and concerns of their local area to the national government.
How Deputies Are Elected
Deputies are chosen by citizens aged 18 and over. The two-rounds system helps make sure the winning candidate has strong support. In the first round, many candidates might run. If no one gets more than half the votes, the top candidates go to a second round. This second vote helps pick a clear winner.
The Palais Bourbon: Home of the Assembly
The Palais Bourbon is a grand building with a long history. It was built in the 18th century. Today, it is where the deputies meet to do their important work. It has special rooms for debates, voting, and committee meetings. The building itself shows the importance of the National Assembly.
Images for kids
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Jacques Chaban-Delmas was President of the Assembly three times between 1958 and 1988.
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Deputies wear tricolor sashes on official occasions. Former President of the National Assembly Bernard Accoyer is shown here.
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The Palais Bourbon in Paris, where the National Assembly meets.
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Ceiling paintings in the Library of the Assemblée nationale in the Palais Bourbon are by Eugène Delacroix.
See also
In Spanish: Asamblea Nacional de Francia para niños
