# Constitutional reform limits consecutive presidential terms (2008)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/2008-constitutional-reform-limits-consecutive-presidential-terms
Location: France
Categories: main-event

A major reform adjusted parliamentary powers and introduced a two-consecutive-term limit for presidents. Within the broader Fifth Republic period, The 1958 Constitution created a stronger presidency and a durable Fifth Republic. Decolonization, European integration, social change, economic shocks and recurring debates over identity, secularism and the role of the state have shaped contemporary France. At this point in the timeline, the relevant governing authority is Nicolas Sarkozy (President of the French Republic). Constitutional reform limits consecutive presidential terms mattered because it changed the legal or constitutional framework within which French institutions and citizens operated. The event is positioned here so visitors can read it alongside changes in government, warfare, society, religion, culture and France’s wider international setting.

## Why it matters
Constitutional reform limits consecutive presidential terms mattered because it changed the legal or constitutional framework within which French institutions and citizens operated.

Ruler at the time: [Nicolas Sarkozy](https://history-france.com/rulers/nicolas-sarkozy)

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — Constitutional reform limits consecutive presidential terms](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=Constitutional+reform+limits+consecutive+presidential+terms&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — Constitutional reform limits consecutive presidential terms](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=Constitutional+reform+limits+consecutive+presidential+terms)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)
- [Élysée — Presidents of the Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-presidents-of-the-republic)