The term 'journée de deuil' translates to 'day of mourning' in French and is an official designation for national mourning declared by the President. The Prime Minister outlines the details of such days, including flag protocols and moments of silence. Historically, these days were reserved for former presidents until the early 2000s when France began recognizing broader tragedies, including terrorist attacks. The most recent case of journée de deuil was on December 23 for victims of Cyclone Chido in Mayotte. Local governments often participate in tributes as well.
In order to be official, a journée de deuil national must be called by the President, who issues a presidential decree. Then, it is the prime minister who establishes the terms.
For a long time - until 2001 - national days of mourning were reserved for paying tribute to deceased French presidents. However, after 9/11 in the US, a national day of mourning was declared in France.
The most recent journée de deuil national was declared on December 23rd to honour the victims of the Cyclone Chido, which devastated the French overseas territory of Mayotte.
Local authorities are also allowed to pay their own tributes - for example, the city of Paris often turns off the lights on the Eiffel Tower in order to pay respect to a deceased national or international figure.
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