Do you want your city to become a prefecture in France?
This guide will explain how to do it. You will learn the steps to become a prefecture. The conditions, status, and necessary criteria will be detailed, including the history of prefectures.
Follow the guide to find out how to gain the status of prefecture in France and understand the missions of the prefects.
What is a prefecture and what is the role of the prefect?
In France, the prefecture governs a department. It is managed by a prefect. Prefects represent the State in their region. They ensure that government laws are followed.
There are 124 prefects and 479 sub-prefects across the country, including in remote regions. They ensure that order is maintained. They also guarantee the safety of everyone and their property.
Prefects assist various State services, such as the police and firefighters, to work together. Additionally, they check that the actions of local authorities comply with the law.
They also manage State aid in each region. Thus, they help decide how to implement national decisions locally. Their role is crucial in this adaptation of policies.
| Number of prefects and sub-prefects | Main missions of the prefects |
|---|---|
| 124 prefects and 479 sub-prefects |
|
To become a prefect, one must have a good knowledge of public law, public management, and economics. Normally, those who studied at the National School of Administration were chosen. However, today, other types of candidates are also considered.
How to become a prefecture
Becoming a prefecture in France is not easy. Special conditions must be met. The city must be a “capital of the department.” This means it has the institutions of the department. It is advantageous because the city has a prefect and many public services.
The candidate city must also have a large population. Its infrastructure must be well developed. And it must have a strong economy. A decree in the Council of State validates the change to prefecture after reviewing the application.
After becoming a prefecture, the city develops significantly. It is at the center of departmental decisions. Many State bodies are present there. This attracts other administrations and businesses.
| Criteria to become a prefecture | Advantages of prefecture status |
|---|---|
| – Be a capital of the department – Have a significant population – Have developed administrative and transport infrastructures – Have a dynamic economic activity | – Enhanced administrative and economic influence – Presence of the prefect and numerous public services – Increased attractiveness for administrations and businesses |
Becoming a prefecture takes time and is complex. But many benefits come with this status. It is crucial for local development and the dynamism of regions.
The recruitment of prefects in France
In France, the recruitment of prefects has changed significantly over time. Previously, graduates of the National School of Administration were primarily chosen. Now, more prefects come from sub-prefects and civil administrators.
The Council of Ministers can appoint a third of the prefects. These prefects do not need to have been members of the State civil service. Thus, non-affiliated senior officials can be prefects, such as officers or magistrates, by secondment or integration.
A prefect spends an average of three years in their area of assignment. Previously, mostly men held this position, but more and more women are being appointed.
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Gross monthly salary of a prefect | 4,500 € |
| Proportion of prefects from ENA (historically) | Majority |
| Proportion of prefects appointed by the Council of Ministers | 1/3 |
| Other profiles that can access the position of prefect | Officers, police commissioners, magistrates, prefecture directors |
| Average term length of a prefect | 3 years |
In summary, in France, prefects are now chosen more broadly. There is a desire to diversify profiles while maintaining a share for senior State officials.
The historical evolution of French prefectures
In the 18th century, France was divided into generalities, each led by an Intendant. In 1790, it was reorganized into 83 departments. Napoleon created 97 prefectures in 1800 to extend the power of the State.
Prefects have gained importance over time. In 1852, under the Second Empire, they received new powers. However, in 1926, 106 sub-prefectures were abolished during a reorganization.
During World War II, 39 prefects and sub-prefects died for France. Today, France has over 200 prefects and 600 sub-prefects. They represent the State in localities, as provided by the Constitution of the Fifth Republic since 1958.
French prefectures have undergone many changes throughout history. They have adapted to the new policies and administrative needs of the country.
