The term "French Collaborationist Forces" refers to groups in France that cooperated with the occupying German forces during World War II. This collaboration was primarily seen in the regime of Vichy France, which was established after the fall of France in 1940. The Vichy government, led by Marshal Philippe Pétain, sought to maintain some degree of autonomy while aligning with Nazi Germany. These collaborationist forces included various military and police units that assisted in enforcing German policies, including the deportation of Jews and suppression of resistance movements. The collaboration was controversial and led to significant post-war repercussions for those involved, including trials and punishments for war crimes.