France's Lecornu Survives No-Confidence Votes as Budget Battle Looms

The **Parliament** is a fundamental democratic institution responsible for legislating, overseeing government activities, and representing citizens. It typically consists of elected representatives (such as MPs) who debate and pass laws, scrutinize government actions, and allocate public funds. Modern parliaments increasingly leverage digital technologies to enhance transparency, efficiency, and citizen engagement. Historically, parliamentary systems have evolved from traditional face-to-face deliberations to incorporating comprehensive digital infrastructures. For example, the UK Parliament has embraced ICT by providing MPs with secure email, intranet access, cloud-based productivity software, and tablet devices to replace paper documents, enabling remote work and environmental savings as part of its Digital First strategy[1]. Similarly, the Canadian Parliament expanded its use of ICT during the COVID-19 pandemic, adopting tools like Zoom for hybrid meetings and e-voting apps, along with open data portals and virtual reality experiences to boost public accessibility and engagement[2]. Parliaments worldwide face the challenge of modernizing while preserving valued traditions. Innovation involves digitizing parliamentary information (minutes, debates, bills), implementing secure digital systems for remote participation, electronic voting, and live streaming of sessions[4]. Developing digital skills among parliamentarians and staff is critical to maximize these technologies' benefits[4]. The Global Centre for ICT in Parliament supports these efforts by facilitating knowledge exchange and technical assistance globally[5]. Key achievements in parliamentary innovation include the integration of AI tools for legislative analysis, enhanced transparency through open data, and improved citizen engagement platforms[3][7]. In 2025, some legislatures, such as the House of Representatives, established specialized committees focused on AI and information technology policy, reflecting a growing recognition of digital transformation’s strategic importance[7]. Currently, parliaments are undergoing broad digital transformations, re-mapping technological landscapes to meet future business needs, improve legislative processes, and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide[6]. This ongoing evolution blends tradition with innovation to create more accessible, transparent, and effective legislatures for the

## Overview The term **National Assembly** most commonly refers to a nation’s legislative body, responsible for enacting, amending, and repealing laws on behalf of its citizens[1][3]. This institution is foundational to representative democracy, serving as a forum where elected officials debate and decide on national policy, distinct from regional or state legislatures[1]. The structure varies—some countries have a unicameral (single-house) National Assembly, while others, like France, feature it as the lower house of a bicameral parliament[6][8]. ## History and Evolution The concept of a National Assembly has deep historical roots, notably emerging during the French Revolution, when the National Constituent Assembly abolished feudalism and drafted the Declaration of the Rights of Man and of the Citizen in 1789, laying the groundwork for modern constitutional governance[5]. In France, the National Assembly has evolved through multiple republics, with significant reforms in the 20th century adjusting the balance of power between the legislature and the executive[4][6]. Globally, many nations have adopted similar assemblies as they transitioned to democratic governance, often during periods of revolution or reform[3]. ## Key Functions and Achievements The primary role of a National Assembly is lawmaking, but its influence extends to overseeing the executive branch, approving budgets, and representing the electorate’s interests at the national level[1][6]. Notable achievements include the abolition of feudal systems, the establishment of constitutional rights, and the creation of frameworks for accountable governance[5]. In France, the Assembly has the power to dismiss the government via a motion of no confidence, ensuring a system of checks and balances[6]. ## Current Status and Notable Aspects Today, National Assemblies remain central to democratic governance worldwide. In France, the National Assembly is elected by proportional representation and operates under a constitution that, since 1958, has strengthened the executive but retained parliamentary oversight[4][6]. The Assembl

The **European Union (EU)** is a unique political and economic union of 27 European countries committed to regional integration, peace, and prosperity. It was established with roots dating back to the 1950s to foster economic cooperation and prevent conflict in Europe, evolving into a complex supranational organization that shapes policies in trade, environment, security, technology, and social affairs. The EU operates a **single market** allowing the free movement of goods, services, capital, and people among member states, making it one of the world’s largest economies. It develops common policies on competition, agriculture, fisheries, and regional development, and it has a shared currency, the euro, used by 20 member states. The organization also emphasizes innovation and digital transition, aiming to boost competitiveness and sustainability through initiatives like the **Green Deal** and the **Net-Zero Industry Act** to lead global climate action and technology development[1][7]. Historically, the EU has expanded from six founding members to 27, with ongoing enlargement plans targeting 35 members by 2030. It has played a critical role in post-pandemic recovery via the **Next Generation EU** fund, a €750 billion recovery package designed to rebuild economies and invest in green and digital transitions[5]. The EU also actively responds to geopolitical challenges, exemplified by its firm stance and sanctions against Russia following the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, alongside pooled military aid to Ukraine[5]. In 2025, the EU faces key challenges including balancing economic security, climate ambitions, and internal political pressures amid a changing geopolitical landscape. Its annual **State of the Union** address outlines priorities like enhancing the single market, supporting industries to decarbonize, and fostering quality jobs[3][4]. The EU is also focused on strengthening connectivity and energy infrastructure to sustain growth and digital transformation[6]. Notably, the EU remains a global actor in trade regulation and development cooperation, navigating complex relations with powers like the US and