Participating in public life

Citizenship includes political rights and responsibilities. Voting, involvement in associations, public debate and other forms of participation allow people to contribute to community life, according to the rules governing each activity.

Nationality and citizenship

Nationality is the legal link between a person and a state. It is not the same as exercising every political right: the right to vote also depends on conditions such as age and the enjoyment of civil and political rights. A French minor has French nationality but cannot vote in political elections.

Rights and duties

Respecting the law and the rights of others, and contributing to public expenses under the applicable conditions, are part of living in society. Many obligations also apply to people who are not French. The Charter of Rights and Duties of French Citizens provides guidance in the context of acquiring nationality.

A European dimension

Having the nationality of a European Union member state also confers EU citizenship. In France, citizens of other member states can vote in municipal and European elections under the prescribed conditions. A residence permit alone does not confer French nationality or these voting rights.