France Country Report

France is a large Western European country that borders Spain to the south and Italy, Switzerland, Luxembourg, Belgium, and Germany to the east. It is a presidential republic with a stable political system. The country remains a major global power and is a leading member of several regional and international organizations, including the UN Security Council, NATO, the EU, and the G7.

The French political environment is currently undergoing structural changes spearheaded by the presidency. In the last year, France experienced a prolonged period of civil unrest with nationwide strikes and protests denouncing controversial pension reforms. The protests, which attracted tens of thousands of participants in major urban centers, included roadblocks, arson, and violence against police. The strikes impacted rail and air travel, oil refineries, health and education, and other sectors. The protests turned increasingly violent when the government used a controversial law to force pension reform measures through parliament.

France has previously suffered major terrorist attacks and remains a prominent target for transnational terrorist groups. Anti-terrorism measures introduced in the wake of several major attacks have somewhat reduced the threat posed by complex attacks. Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaeda (AQ) have also carried out several lower-profile attacks in the country, causing deaths and injuries. Although the proficiency of counter-terrorism operations has improved, further attacks are likely.

Petty crime, such as pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is the main threat facing travelers. Several suburban areas are havens for organized crime, and rivalries periodically lead to targeted assassinations. France has well-developed infrastructure and healthcare facilities.

While the vast majority of business operations and travel in France are conducted safely, the country faces an elevated terrorist threat. Anti-terrorism measures introduced in the wake of several major attacks have somewhat reduced the threat posed by complex attacks; however, further attacks perpetrated by self-radicalized individuals and terrorist sympathizers remain possible. Criminal activity generates a security concern for travelers in large cities. France has a history of mass protests related to socio-economic issues, and as a result, episodes of localized violence periodically occur in major urban centers.

There are no safety concerns over air travel.

Road travel is considered safe, but traffic engineering and driving habits pose special dangers.

The French ports are in a modest position in the container shipping rankings and are generally efficient.

Utilities are good and central heating is used during winter, with underfloor heating becoming increasingly popular.

Hospitals are targets of cyber attacks in France, however, France is less affected by cyber crime than other European countries.

France has a variable climate and its European territory encompasses both alpine tundra and semi-arid Mediterranean scrub land. The vast majority of France has a temperate climate that poses few travel risks. However, extreme heat can occur on its southern Mediterranean coastline in summer months and this can lead to illness and forest fires. Avalanches may also occur in winter months in mountainous areas of the French Alps. Heavy rains and high tides can cause flooding in coastal areas and in regions located near rivers. Storms and strong winds can occasionally result in power outages and travel disruptions.

A high standard of medical facilities and medicines are available, although it may be difficult to access from remote locations. Well-stocked pharmacies are readily available nationwide. The country does not face any outstanding health risks. Access to mental health services is limited. Tap water is generally considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

France is a unitary multi-party semi-presidential constitutional republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government, while the president is the head of state; however, in practice the president wields considerable influence regarding domestic politics. The president, prime minister, and Council of Ministers together exercise executive power, while legislative power resides with the Parliament, which consists of the National Assembly and the Senate. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature. Presidential and parliamentary elections take place every five years.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are typically required to form the government. Government collapses are rare. State institutions are competent and effective and provide reliable services across the country.