What does it mean to be a “French Overseas Collectivity” (COM)?
Overseas Collectivities (COMs) are local authorities of the French Republic governed, since the constitutional revision of March 28, 2003, by article 74 of the Constitution (namely the application of the principle of legislative exception devolved to a competent local institution).
As integral parts of France, overseas Collectivities are represented in the National Assembly, Senate and Economic and Social Council.
The administration of sovereign functions (defense, police, justice, treasury) is ensured by the French State, and Atlantic COMs use the Euro as national currency.