This book, a portrait of today's France, was written for all those who would like to improve their knowledge and understanding of France and its people.

This new updated edition is illustrated with many colour photographs and enriched by charts and statistics. Many specialists from different areas collaborated on this book, contribution a wealth of information and providing a variety of tones and perspectives.

This volume presents France's history, institutions, political life and lifestyles, along with the French economy, culture, media, education system and foreign policy. With this wide panorama, the curious reader can find both summarised and specific information in a complete and concise inventory of France and its people.