The Fifth Republic's Constitution has proven remarkably adaptable, undergoing several significant amendments:
1974: Expanding Constitutional Review
Under President Valéry Giscard d'Estaing, the ability to refer laws to the Constitutional Council was extended to 60 deputies or 60 senators, not just governmental authorities. This democratized constitutional review and strengthened legislative minorities' rights.
1992-1993: European Integration
The Maastricht Treaty required constitutional amendments to allow for European integration, including provisions for European citizenship and the transfer of certain sovereign powers to European institutions.
2000: The Five-Year Presidency
The presidential term was reduced from seven to five years (quinquennat), aligning it with the legislative term to reduce the likelihood of cohabitation and strengthen the president's democratic mandate.
2008: Modernization and Rights
President Nicolas Sarkozy's constitutional reform package included:
- Limiting presidents to two consecutive terms
- Strengthening Parliament's powers
- Creating a new procedure for constitutional challenges by citizens (QPC)
- Establishing a Defender of Rights position
Environmental Charter (2004)
France became one of the first countries to give constitutional status to environmental rights and duties, integrating sustainable development into fundamental law.