Regional names allowed in France

Regional languages such as Breton and Corse are nearer to being better supported after MPs backed a law giving protection and allowing diacritic symbols to be used in forenames.

Connexion journalist

Published Wednesday 26 February 2020 - 15:00 Modified Wednesday 26 February 2020 - 15:00

Del på Facebook Del på Twitter Del på e-post

Symbols caused problems when a baby was given the Breton name Fañch as the tilde was not legal.

A top appeal court then allowed it.

The bill now goes to the Senate but it has dropped key provisions for language learning.

Stay informed:
Sign up to our free weekly e-newsletter
Subscribe to access all our online articles and receive our printed monthly newspaper The Connexion at your home. News analysis, features and practical help for English-speakers in France

Del på Facebook Del på Twitter Del på e-post

regions laws language / linguistics french news

Wet south-east, dry north: France's reversed rainfall pattern March-May 2025

Precipitation exceeded seasonal averages by more than 60% in Alpes-Maritimes and Var
French rail union announces June - September strike action

Rolling strike attempts to catch rail operator off guard with last-minute walkouts
Two supermarket olive oil brands may pose health risk says French consumer organisation

Oil revealed as having the lowest level of pollutants is surprisingly affordable

Flight delay compensation changes include travel to and from France

New EU proposals address delay periods and compensation levels, together with easier claim processes and re-routing requirements

What are the alternatives to a retirement home in France?

There are several independent living options for seniors in France

Photos: The secret wildlife hidden in French cities
How a family embraced living on a bus in France
The six Crit’Air stickers for air pollution zones in France

Wet south-east, dry north: France's reversed rainfall pattern March-May 2025

Precipitation exceeded seasonal averages by more than 60% in Alpes-Maritimes and Var

French rail union announces June - September strike action

Rolling strike attempts to catch rail operator off guard with last-minute walkouts

Two supermarket olive oil brands may pose health risk says French consumer organisation

Oil revealed as having the lowest level of pollutants is surprisingly affordable

What to do if you cross these animals when out walking in France

From hornets to vipers, keep an eye out for these potentially dangerous species

State appeals ruling that restored EU voting rights to Briton in France

Lawyers had hoped the recent judgement would be final

Hail warnings as storms set to batter east of France again

Heightened weather alerts extended to Saturday morning in several departments

Estimate renovation gains to French home with new official tool

Studies claim properties in some regions could see their values increase by 20% following energy-efficiency upgrades

Letters: We have been without a GP or dentist for years in France

Connexion readers share their experiences of living in a 'medical desert'

Paris Nuit Blanche 2025: join in this weekend’s ‘all night’ free culture festival

Dozens of galleries, museums, and art spaces are holding events and tours

400,000 illegal speed bumps can stay, French court rules
Letters: Walking in France is impossible due to hunters
Tips on how to manage a French chateau - and how to get your own

How do retirement homes in France work?

Explore care options, costs, and how to choose the right place for you or your loved ones

How I became a ghostwriter after moving to France

Tracy Stewart, 58, a risk specialist, moved to France in 2014. Her life took an unexpected turn, leading her on a new career journey within the publishing industry