The Mediator of the French Republic is an independent authority instituted by the law of 3 January 1973. His six-year mandate can neither be curtailed nor renewed.
The Mediator of the French Republic is a physical person who is identified with the Institution. This personalisation of a role is rare in the French judicial system.
• The Mediator of the French Republic is appointed by decree of the President of the French Republic at a session of the Council of Ministers.
• He is appointed for a period of six years (non-renewable), which guarantees him great freedom in the exercise of his duties.
• He is, in addition, protected by the principle of irremovability.
• He also benefits from the exact same judicial immunity as members of parliament: he may not be prosecuted or judged for the opinions he gives or the actions he takes in the exercise of his duties.
• He may not hold any elected office; however, he retains the right to hold two local offices - departmental councillor or town councillor - if he held these prior to his appointment.
• Finally, his budget, once drawn up, is subsequently monitored by the Cour des Comptes.
The Mediator of the French Republic does not receive instructions from any authority: neither the government nor the civil service may place pressure on him.
