Arrondissements

Arrondissements

An arrondissement is a level of administrative division in some Francophone countries, notably France, Belgium, and Haiti. The term is derived from the French word "arrondir," meaning "to round" or "to make round," reflecting the way these divisions often encompass a rounded area of territory. Arrondissements serve various administrative purposes and can differ significantly in their function and governance depending on the country.

Arrondissements in France

In France, arrondissements are subdivisions of the départements and are further divided into communes. Each arrondissement is administered by a subprefect (sous-préfet) and has a subprefecture (sous-préfecture) as its administrative center, except for the arrondissement that contains the departmental capital, which is administered by the prefect of the department.

Structure and Function

Arrondissements in France do not have their own local government or council. Instead, they serve as administrative districts for the national government, primarily for the organization of public services and the implementation of national policies. The subprefect acts as the representative of the state in the arrondissement, overseeing the implementation of government policies and coordinating the activities of various state services.

Historical Context

The concept of arrondissements was established during the French Revolution as part of a broader effort to rationalize and standardize the administrative divisions of France. The Law of 28 Pluviôse Year VIII (17 February 1800) created the arrondissements as we know them today.

Arrondissements in Belgium

In Belgium, arrondissements are subdivisions of the provinces. They serve as both administrative and judicial districts. Each arrondissement in Belgium is headed by a commissioner who is responsible for coordinating the activities of the various municipalities within the arrondissement.

Administrative Arrondissements

Administrative arrondissements in Belgium are used for the organization of local government services and the implementation of regional policies. They do not have their own elected councils but are important for the coordination of municipal activities.

Judicial Arrondissements

Judicial arrondissements are used for the organization of the judicial system in Belgium. Each judicial arrondissement has a court of first instance, which handles civil and criminal cases within its jurisdiction.

Arrondissements in Haiti

In Haiti, arrondissements are subdivisions of the departments. Each arrondissement is further divided into communes. The role of arrondissements in Haiti is primarily administrative, serving as a level of government between the department and the commune.

Arrondissements in Other Countries

The concept of arrondissements is also used in other countries with a French colonial history, such as Senegal and Benin, where they serve similar administrative functions.

See Also

• Département
• Commune
• Subprefecture
• Administrative division

References

• "Arrondissement." Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed October 2023.
• French Government. "The Administrative Organization of France." Accessed October 2023.