Fifty years ago, France's Fifth Republic was established - an occasion for a critical retrospective and outlook on the government system of our neighboring country. This discussion addresses the motives of the founding fathers, the development of the constitution and the political parties, as well as critical questions regarding French democracy: the role of parliamentarians, the ability to reform, social dialogue, political participation, and political protest. This creates a multifaceted picture of the Fifth Republic, which, despite recurring fundamental criticism, has proven to be adaptable and effective, but also faces new challenges and changes.