France Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

France, State of Western Europe; 551,700 km², 67 million residents (2019).France has a long coast towards the Atlantic, the English Channel and the Mediterranean, as well as land borders with Spain and Andorra in the south, Italy, Switzerland and Germany in the east, and Belgium and Luxembourg in the northeast. The island of Corsica in the Mediterranean also forms part of the country. France also has a number of possessions around the world with a total population of about 2 million people. The capital is Paris (2.2 million residents, 2016).

Country facts

Republic of France / Republic of France
Country abbreviation: FR (F)
Area: 551 700 km²
Population (2019): 67 million residents
Capital: Paris
Main language: French
State: Republic
Head of State: Emmanuel Macron (President)
Head of Government: Édouard Philippe
Per capita GDP (2018): US $ 41,464
GNI per capita (2018): US $ 41,080
Currency unit: euro
Currency code: EUR
Country number (telephony): 33
Internet domain name: fr
Time difference compared to Sweden: 0
National Day: July 14 (Bastiljen stormas, 1789)

Nature

Land use: forest (29%), agricultural land (53%), other (18%)
Highest mountain: Mont Blanc (4 807 m asl)
Longest river: Loire (1 012 km)

Population

Population density (2019): 121 residents per km²
Natural population growth (2019): 0.2%; birth number 11 ‰, death number 9 ‰
Age structure (2019): 0-14 years (18%), 15-64 (62%), 65- (20%)
Average life expectancy (2019): men 80 years, women 85 years
Infant mortality (2019): 4 per 1,000 live births
Population forecast 2050: 72 million residents
HDI (2017): 0.901 (place 24 of 188)
Urbanization rate (2019): 70%
Most populous cities (2016): Paris (2.2 million residents), Marseille (862,000), Lyon (515,700)

Business

Industry’s contribution to GDP (2017): agriculture (2%), industry (19%), service (79%)
Exports (2017): US $ 549 900 million
Main export products: machinery, means of transport, plastic products
Main exporting countries: Germany, Spain, Italy
Imports (2017): US $ 601,700 million
Main import products: machinery, vehicles, oil
Main importing countries: Germany, Belgium, The Netherlands
Railway network (2014): 29,640 km

Geography

Location and Borders

France is located in Western Europe and is bordered by Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Andorra. It is also surrounded by several bodies of water: the North Sea to the north, the English Channel to the northwest, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, and the Mediterranean Sea to the south. France is one of the largest countries in Europe, covering an area of approximately 551,695 square kilometers, making it the largest country in the European Union.

In addition to its mainland, France includes several overseas territories scattered around the globe. These territories are located in the Caribbean, South America, the Indian Ocean, the Pacific Ocean, and even Antarctica. This vast expanse gives France a unique geopolitical position, stretching across multiple continents and time zones.

Physical Features

France’s diverse geography offers a variety of landscapes, from the towering Alps in the southeast to the gently rolling hills of the Loire Valley. The country can be divided into several distinct geographic regions, each offering a different climate and terrain. The Alps, including Mont Blanc, the highest peak in Western Europe at 4,810 meters (15,781 feet), form the natural boundary between France and Italy. The Pyrenees mountain range marks the border between France and Spain.

In the central part of the country, the Massif Central is a large, mountainous region that covers about 15% of France’s land area. Further to the north, the land flattens out into fertile plains, particularly the Paris Basin, which is one of the most important agricultural areas in France. The northern coast is known for its chalk cliffs, and the Brittany Peninsula, with its rugged coastline and ancient megalithic structures, adds to the variety of France’s geography.

The country is also home to numerous rivers, including the Seine, Loire, Rhone, and Garonne. These rivers not only provide stunning scenery but also played a crucial role in shaping the development of French cities and trade routes throughout history. France’s extensive coastline and rich river systems have made it a hub for maritime trade, exploration, and cultural exchange.

Climate

France experiences a range of climates, largely due to its geographic diversity. In the northern parts of the country, including Paris, the climate is classified as temperate maritime, with cool winters and mild summers. The weather can be unpredictable, with frequent rainfall year-round. In the southern parts, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, the climate shifts to a Mediterranean type, characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

The mountainous regions, such as the Alps and Pyrenees, experience alpine climates, with long, harsh winters and cool, short summers. In the southeast, the Mediterranean influences create hot, sunny weather, ideal for growing crops like grapes, olives, and lavender. The southwest has a temperate oceanic climate, while the west coast experiences more of an Atlantic influence, with relatively mild temperatures and frequent rainfall.

Natural Resources

France is rich in natural resources, which have played a significant role in its economic development. The country is one of the largest agricultural producers in Europe, with fertile lands yielding grains, fruits, vegetables, and livestock. France’s forests, which cover about a quarter of the country, provide timber, and the country also has a long history of mining, particularly for coal, iron ore, and bauxite.

France is also known for its wine production, with regions like Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne being internationally renowned for their vineyards. The country’s abundance of natural resources, combined with its geographical diversity, has made it a global leader in agriculture, energy production, and industrial innovation.

People

Population and Ethnic Composition

With a population of approximately 67 million, France is the second-most populous country in the European Union, after Germany. The population is ethnically diverse, though the majority are of French descent, with historical roots tracing back to the Celtic Gauls, Romans, and Franks. However, France’s history of colonization, immigration, and globalization has led to a multicultural society.

The largest minority group in France is people of North African descent, particularly from former French colonies like Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia. There are also significant communities of Sub-Saharan Africans, Italians, Portuguese, and Asians, particularly Vietnamese, Chinese, and Cambodians. Immigrants and their descendants have made vital contributions to French society, adding to the country’s cultural and social richness.

While there are people of various ethnic backgrounds, the concept of “Frenchness” is deeply rooted in the idea of republicanism, which emphasizes equality and unity under the principles of the French Republic. The integration of different ethnic groups has been both celebrated and contentious, with ongoing debates surrounding identity, citizenship, and multiculturalism.

Language

French is the official language of France and is spoken by the vast majority of the population. It is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world, and France plays a significant role in the global Francophone community. The language is a symbol of national pride and has been a key part of France’s cultural identity for centuries.

In addition to French, there are several regional languages spoken in different parts of the country, such as Breton in Brittany, Occitan in the south, and Alsatian in the northeast. These languages, however, have seen a decline in speakers over the years due to the dominance of French in education, media, and government.

In large urban centers like Paris, English is also widely spoken, especially among younger generations, due to globalization and France’s economic ties to the international community. Other languages, such as Arabic, Spanish, and Italian, are spoken by immigrant communities and contribute to the linguistic diversity of the country.

Religion

France is a secular country, and the French constitution guarantees freedom of religion. The majority of the population (around 65-70%) identifies as Christian, predominantly Roman Catholic, though church attendance has declined significantly in recent decades. The Catholic Church has historically played a major role in shaping French culture, education, and social policies.

Islam is the second-largest religion in France, followed by a significant number of people of Jewish and Protestant faiths. France has one of the largest Muslim populations in Europe, largely due to immigration from former French colonies in North Africa. This diversity of faiths contributes to the country’s rich cultural fabric but has also been the subject of political and social debates about integration and national identity.

Secularism, or “laïcité,” is a cornerstone of French society, and the separation of church and state is a central value. This principle has often led to debates about the role of religion in public life, particularly regarding issues such as religious symbols in schools and the public sector.

Economy

Key Industries

France has one of the largest economies in the world and is a leading industrial and agricultural producer. It has a diversified economy, with key sectors including manufacturing, services, agriculture, and technology.

The country is a global leader in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and luxury goods. Major companies like Airbus, Renault, Peugeot, and L’Oréal are synonymous with French innovation and quality. The aerospace industry, in particular, is significant in France, with the country being one of the world’s largest producers of commercial aircraft.

France is also a leader in the energy sector, particularly nuclear energy. The country generates a significant portion of its electricity from nuclear power, which has enabled France to maintain a low carbon footprint in its energy production. France is also expanding its renewable energy sector, including wind and solar power.

Agriculture and Wine Production

Agriculture is an important part of the French economy, with France being one of the largest producers of agricultural products in Europe. The country is particularly known for its vineyards and wine production. Wine is not only an economic asset but also a cultural icon, with regions like Bordeaux, Champagne, and Burgundy becoming synonymous with quality wine.

In addition to wine, France is a major producer of dairy products, cereals, vegetables, and meat. The country’s diverse climate and terrain allow for the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, and agriculture continues to be a significant employer in rural areas. France is also a major exporter of food products, including cheese, wine, and pastries, all of which are central to French culinary traditions.

Tourism

Tourism is one of France’s largest economic sectors, and the country remains the most visited country in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. France’s historical landmarks, cultural heritage, cuisine, and picturesque landscapes make it a prime destination for international tourists.

Paris, often called “The City of Light,” is a global cultural and tourist center, with iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. In addition to Paris, France is home to numerous other popular tourist destinations, including the French Riviera, the Alps, Normandy, and the Loire Valley. The French countryside, with its vineyards, medieval villages, and national parks, also attracts those seeking a more rural experience.

The tourism sector contributes significantly to the French economy, providing millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, transportation, and entertainment.

Trade and Economy Challenges

France is an important global trade partner and is a member of the European Union, which provides it access to one of the largest markets in the world. The country exports goods ranging from aircraft and automobiles to luxury products and agricultural items. Its main trading partners include Germany, the United States, Italy, and China.

However, France faces several economic challenges, including unemployment, particularly among younger workers, and high public debt. Despite these issues, the French government continues to implement economic reforms aimed at improving the labor market, reducing public sector spending, and stimulating economic growth. France is also striving to balance its social welfare system with the need for economic competitiveness.

Government

Political System

France is a republic with a semi-presidential system of government. The country’s political system is characterized by a separation of powers between the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The president, elected every five years, is the head of state and has significant powers in foreign policy, national defense, and the appointment of key officials. The current president holds considerable executive power, including the ability to dissolve the National Assembly and call for new elections.

The prime minister, appointed by the president, heads the government and is responsible for implementing policies and overseeing the day-to-day functioning of the government. The French National Assembly, the lower house of parliament, plays a critical role in lawmaking and controlling the government’s actions. Members of the National Assembly are elected by direct popular vote.

Legal System

France has a civil law system, and its legal framework is based on the Napoleonic Code, a set of laws established during the reign of Emperor Napoleon I in the early 19th century. The country’s judicial system is independent, and its courts handle a wide range of legal matters, from criminal cases to civil disputes. The Court of Cassation, located in Paris, is the highest judicial authority in France.

French law is grounded in the principles of equality, liberty, and fraternity, reflecting the values of the French Revolution. Over the years, France has become a global leader in the promotion of human rights and the rule of law, particularly within the context of the European Union and international organizations.

Foreign Policy and International Relations

France has a long history of involvement in global affairs. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, France plays a significant role in international diplomacy, peacekeeping, and conflict resolution. The country is a founding member of the European Union, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and the United Nations.

France maintains strong political, economic, and cultural ties with its former colonies in Africa and the Caribbean. The country has often been a key player in the mediation of conflicts in the Middle East, Africa, and elsewhere. Its foreign policy is characterized by a commitment to multilateralism, human rights, and the protection of democratic values.

Culture

Language and Literature

French language and literature are at the heart of the country’s cultural identity. The French language, with its elegance and expressiveness, has been one of the most influential languages in the world, especially in literature, diplomacy, and the arts. France has produced some of the most celebrated writers in history, including Victor Hugo, Marcel Proust, Albert Camus, and Voltaire. Their works continue to shape Western literary traditions.

French literature covers a wide array of genres, from the philosophical works of René Descartes to the romantic novels of Gustave Flaubert. The French literary tradition is deeply tied to the country’s intellectual and cultural history, reflecting the country’s commitment to freedom of thought and expression.

Art, Music, and Cinema

France is synonymous with art, being the birthplace of the Renaissance artist Leonardo da Vinci, as well as several other renowned painters such as Claude Monet, Édgar Degas, and Paul Cézanne. The Louvre Museum in Paris, one of the world’s most famous art museums, holds a vast collection of works from various periods, particularly those of the Renaissance and Impressionist movements.

French cinema is also a significant part of the country’s cultural heritage, with iconic filmmakers like Jean-Luc Godard, François Truffaut, and Jacques Tati shaping global cinema. The Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, is held annually in France and showcases the best of international filmmaking.

Music in France spans classical, opera, jazz, and modern pop. The country has produced several influential musicians and composers, including Édith Piaf, Maurice Ravel, and Daft Punk. French music, from chanson to electronic beats, has had a lasting impact on the world’s cultural scene.

Festivals and Traditions

France’s festivals and traditions reflect its rich history and diverse regional cultures. Bastille Day, celebrated on July 14, commemorates the storming of the Bastille and the French Revolution. This national holiday includes military parades, fireworks, and parties across the country. Other significant events include the Fête de la Musique, a celebration of music held on June 21, and the Tour de France, the world’s most famous bicycle race.

French cuisine is a defining aspect of the country’s culture, with each region offering unique dishes and flavors. The French are passionate about food, and meals are often seen as a communal event. French cuisine is celebrated for its artistry and technique, from haute cuisine to rustic regional dishes. Wine, cheese, and pastries are central to French dining, and the country is home to some of the best vineyards and culinary traditions in the world.