Born in Senegal to a large military family, which she has described as very traditional, Catholic and strict.

Ms. Royal attended Catholic school in eastern France. She graduated from the Institute for Political Studies and later ENA, the famous "great school" for civil servants.

Ms. Royal served as a young adviser to President Francois Mitterrand in the 1980s, then was named minister in various postings, including the environment and primary education.

She was first elected to Parliament in 1988. Ms. Royal has four children with her partner, the Socialist Party leader, Francois Hollande.