France

The largest country in Western Europe, France consists of a metropolitan core, bordering Spain, Andorra, Monaco, Italy, Switzerland, Germany, Luxembourg and Belgium and numerous overseas territories around the world, with varying degrees of autonomy. Having been at times a kingdom, a republic and an empire, it currently operates under a 1958 constitution as a representative democracy with a strong executive, the powers and responsibilities of which are divided between a president and a prime minister. Largely compliant with human rights standards, particular concerns have been raised about perceptions and treatment of children from minority or vulnerable background - particularly those from Roma or travelling communities.