Deputy (France)

They enjoy total freedom of expression within the National Assembly chamber, although they can be sanctioned by a majority of deputies for not complying with the rules of procedure.

As of 2023 and since 1958, the maximum penalty has been voted three times; the most recent was against La France Insoumise deputy Thomas Portes, who pictured Labour Minister Olivier Dussopt decapitated on social media.

They can inspect – without having to announce their visit prior to arrival – a number of sites managed on behalf the executive to verify compliance with laws voted by Parliament.

[5][6] It is common for deputies, wearing their distinctive sash, to place themselves at the front of demonstrations, with the aim of being recognisable to police forces and protecting individuals behind them.

[9] Candidates can run for a seat in the National Assembly when they hold French citizenship, are at least 18 years old, as well as not have been declared incompetent in court or sentenced to a loss of civic rights.