Rights and duties

Written during the French Revolution, this text establishes fundamental rights:

• Freedom of expression
• Right to a fair trial and a lawyer
• Equality before the law
• Freedom of conscience

It is a founding text of rights and duties in France.

Rights apply to everyone in France, regardless of nationality.

• Abortion is legal — a woman's right guaranteed by law
• Divorce is always possible — it's a right
• Death penalty was abolished in 1981
• Polygamy is prohibited
• Freedoms can be limited to protect public order and others' rights

Everyone in France must:

• Respect the law — it applies to all (French and foreign)
• Reduce waste — sort and recycle (environmental duty)
• Not litter — throwing trash in the street can lead to a fine
• Bring large items to the waste center (déchetterie)
• Call emergency services if there's an accident (15, 18, or 112)

Three levels of infractions (from least to most serious):

1. Contravention — a minor offense punished mainly by a fine
2. Misdemeanor (délit) — a more serious offense
3. Crime — the most serious level

Police work mainly in urban areas. The Gendarmerie works mainly in rural areas. Both ensure safety and enforce the law.

A judge holds judicial power and sanctions criminals. Victims should file a complaint (porter plainte).

Human trafficking is the exploitation of people through force, deception, or coercion. It is a serious crime in France. Victims have the right to protection and assistance.