The Government of the French Republic (Gouvernement de la République française) exercises executive power in France. It is composed of the Prime Minister, who is the head of government, as well as both junior and senior ministers.
Appointed by the President of the Republic (Head of State), the Prime Minister “directs the actions of the Government” (article 21 of the Constitution) and in principle sets out the essential political guidelines which, except in the case of cohabitation, are those of the President of the Republic. The government directs and decides the policy of the nation. It writes bills to be introduced to parliament, and also writes and issues decrees. The government is responsible for the economic and financial policy of the French Republic, must authorize all expenditures made by each ministry, and also manage all revenue. Expenditures are made through what is called a “finance law” (French: Loi des Finances), which is equivalent to an appropriation bill.
The Government of France is responsible for all the measures aimed towards a digital transition of the economy and French society. At this regard, the government will make heavy investments to heighten digital inclusion to foster faster take-up of new digital uses and services by all citizens.
France ranks 16th in DESI (Digital Economy and Society Index) 2017. It performs well in digital skills (9th rank) and e-government (9th rank). On the other hand, it is below EU average for the integration of digital technologies by companies, connectivity, and internet use by individuals.
