French departments are administrative divisions in France that help manage local governance. There are 101 departments, each with a unique number and name, such as Paris (75) and Bouches-du-Rhône (13). They serve as the basis for local administration and are responsible for various public services, including education, transportation, and social services. Each department is further divided into arrondissements, cantons, and communes, which help organize local governance. Departments are also grouped into regions, which are larger administrative areas. This structure allows for efficient management of resources and services across the country.