European Collectivity of Alsace, Territorial collectivity in northeastern France
The European Collectivity of Alsace covers the former departments of Bas-Rhin and Haut-Rhin in northeastern France along the German and Swiss borders. Its administrative seats are located in Strasbourg and Colmar, the capitals of the two earlier departments.
This collectivity came into being on January 1, 2021, following parliamentary approval two years earlier that merged both departments into one entity. The change aimed to strengthen regional identity and simplify administration in a historically shaped territory.
Residents often speak both French and Alsatian, an Alemannic dialect with German roots that remains present in everyday conversation. Local markets and half-timbered houses show the influence of both neighboring countries in building styles and ways of life.
The administration handles education, local transport networks, and social assistance that residents can access through numerous offices in both territories. Cross-border cooperation with German partners eases daily life for people living in this area.
This administrative unit holds expanded powers beyond classic departments, including the promotion of regional languages in public schools. It is the only French territorial collectivity of its kind with an explicit European reference in its name.
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