ordonnainces

Ordonnances are a type of legislative act in France that holds a legal status similar to statutes passed by the parliament. Historically, they were issued by the King, but in the modern French legal system, they are enacted by the President of the Republic. The constitutional framework, primarily established by the Constitution of 1958, outlines the conditions under which ordonnances can be issued and their relationship with parliamentary law.

Ordonnances are typically used to address matters that fall within the domain of statutory law, but where the government deems it necessary to act with more expedition or to delegate specific implementation details. They are not to be confused with decrees, which are executive orders issued by the Prime Minister. The President can only issue an ordonnance after receiving specific authorization from the Parliament through a "loi d'habilitation" or enabling law. This law defines the subject matter and the duration of the delegation of power.

Once issued, an ordonnance has the force of law. However, it must be presented to the Parliament for ratification within a specified timeframe. If ratified, it becomes a permanent law. If not ratified, or if the deadline passes without ratification, the ordonnance ceases to have effect. This parliamentary oversight ensures that the government's legislative power remains subject to democratic control. Ordonnances can be used for a variety of purposes, including simplifying administrative procedures or implementing European Union directives.