Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding ICPE regulations: general concepts

How does the Constitutional Council work, and what is its role?

The Constitutional Council was established by the Constitution of the Fifth Republic, dated October 4, 1958. It consists of nine members, appointed for a non-renewable nine-year term by the President of the Republic and the President of each of the houses of Parliament (the Senate and the National Assembly), respectively. Former Presidents of the Republic are, by right, members of the Constitutional Council for life, provided they do not hold a position incompatible with the term of office as a member of the Council, in which case they may not serve.

The Court exercises its review after the bill has been passed by Parliament but before the law is enacted. Referral to the Court is optional and may be initiated either by a political authority (the President of the Republic, the Prime Minister, the President of the National...