The Citizenship Ceremony and the distribution of voter cards took place this Wednesday at the Opera. A symbolic and important moment for many young people.
They were welcomed by Christian Estrosi, Mayor of Nice, and Bernard Baudin, Deputy Mayor of Nice in charge of the “Niçoises Hills” territory, civil status, and parks and gardens.
A mayor who reminded us of “the privilege we have to live in a country, France, that by granting us this title of citizen, also grants us these rights, these freedoms, these protections” before adding, “it’s important that you understand that being a full citizen is a sort of privilege, a premium card that not everyone in the world possesses.”
On the occasion of this ceremony, the fundamental principles of the Republic and democracy were reiterated. As every year, this citizenship ceremony, as stipulated by the electoral code, allows newly registered 18-year-olds on the electoral rolls of the City of Nice to receive their first voter card along with the citizenship booklet presenting the main rights and duties of a citizen.
Thus, the young adult acquires rights including:
– The right to vote in local, national, and European elections,
– The right to run for election and be elected,
– The right to exercise a judicial function,
– The right to represent or assist a party before a judge,
– The right to testify in court.
But also duties including:
– Compliance with the law,
– Respecting the rights of others, such as demonstrating civility and good citizenship.
