# France participates in Libya intervention (2011)

URL: https://history-france.com/timeline/2011-france-participates-in-libya-intervention
Location: Libya
Categories: battle

French aircraft took a leading role in the NATO-backed campaign against Muammar Gaddafi’s forces. 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). France participates in Libya intervention mattered because it changed the military or territorial balance and influenced the political choices that followed. 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
France participates in Libya intervention mattered because it changed the military or territorial balance and influenced the political choices that followed.

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

## Sources
- [Wikipedia topic lookup — France participates in Libya intervention](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search?search=France+participates+in+Libya+intervention&go=Go)
- [Encyclopaedia Britannica topic lookup — France participates in Libya intervention](https://www.britannica.com/search?query=France+participates+in+Libya+intervention)
- [Élysée — Institutions of the Fifth Republic](https://www.elysee.fr/en/french-presidency/the-institutions)