Two chambers to represent citizens

The French Parliament consists of the National Assembly and the Senate. Members of the National Assembly are elected by direct universal suffrage; senators are elected by indirect suffrage and represent local and regional authorities.

Its responsibilities

Parliament passes laws, scrutinises the Government’s actions and evaluates public policies. Both chambers examine bills: the successive exchanges between them constitute the parliamentary shuttle.

Key point: Parliament exercises legislative power. It must not be confused with the Government, which performs executive functions.