Légion d'Honneur Expands Civilian Eligibility and Revamps Nomination Process

Grand Chancellor François Lecointre announces reforms to increase accessibility and representation in France's prestigious honors system.

The annual civilian contingent for the Légion d'Honneur will increase from 800 to 1,350 recipients, with 100 spots reserved for citizen-nominated candidates.
Citizen nominations will bypass prefectures and be sent directly to the Grande Chancellerie, aiming to diversify honorees beyond elite circles.
A specific allocation of 100 Légion d'Honneur awards and 200 Ordre National du Mérite decorations will be designated for citizen-nominated individuals.
Reforms seek to address perceptions of exclusivity, with surveys showing 59% of French citizens view the honor as a symbol of elitism.
The Grand Chancellor emphasizes the importance of honoring everyday merit and inspiring societal unity through the recognition of exemplary contributions.