Political Structure of Martinique

Political Structure of Martinique

Martinique is an overseas territorial collectivity of France, meaning it operates under the French Republic while having a degree of administrative autonomy. Its government system blends French national laws with local governance tailored to its Caribbean context.

1. Status Within France

• Officially: “Collectivité Territoriale de Martinique” (CTM)
• Since 2015, Martinique merged its regional and departmental councils into a single local government body.
• It is represented in French Parliament and subject to French and EU laws.

2. Key Institutions

a) Executive Council (Conseil Exécutif)

• Equivalent to the executive branch of government
• Headed by a President of the Executive Council
• Oversees daily administration, economy, education, and transport

b) Assembly of Martinique (Assemblée de Martinique)

• 51 elected members
• Responsible for law-making at the local level: budget, infrastructure, culture, health, and economic development

3. Main Political Figures

• President of the Executive Council – Head of the local government
• Prefect (Préfet) – Appointed by the French government; represents the French state in Martinique (controls police, justice, and national affairs)

4. Elections and Democracy

• Citizens vote in:
  • Local elections (for CTM Assembly)
  • French national elections (Presidential, National Assembly)
  • European Parliament elections (as EU citizens)
• Voting age: 18
• Electoral system: Proportional representation and direct voting

5. European Union Membership

• As an overseas department of France, Martinique is:
  • Part of the EU
  • Uses the euro (€)
  • Eligible for EU development funds

6. National vs. Local Roles

Political Parties

Martinique has both local parties and French national party branches. Key themes include:

• Autonomy vs. centralization
• Social and economic development
• Environmental protection