Frequently asked questions
Understanding the role of associations

How do I find out about an association?

Information about associations is public. If it cannot be found on the association's own website, it can be obtained :

• on the Official Journal website at service de consultation des annonces officielles des associations;

• at the departmental prefectures.

What's the difference between an association and a federation?

A federation brings together associations in the same sector. For example, the France Nature Environnement federation groups together 3,000 associations working to protect nature and the environment. This grouping takes place at departmental, regional or national level. The federations represent member associations on consultative bodies (e.g., the Conseil supérieur de...