The Fondation Alliance Française is the moral and legal reference for Alliances Françaises. To be formed, an Alliance needs recognition from the Fondation through an approval of its statutes. The Fondation Alliance Française is a recognized public body. It was created in July 2007 and became separate from the Alliance Française of Paris. For more information:
http://www.fondation-alliancefr.org/

The Délégation générale represents the Fondation Alliance Française in Southern Africa. It is responsible for upholding the principles of good governance and quality approach that account for the Alliance Française brand worldwide. It provides advice to AF directors and board of directors on legal matters. It is through the Délégation générale that new Alliances Françaises are created. The Délégué general evaluates the detailed proposals before they are transferred to Paris.

The Délégation générale is in charge of leading the network of the Alliance Française branches, offering training, encouraging exchange, sharing skills, organizing and coordinating projects related to cultural exchanges and communication.

The General Delegation is based at the Alliance Française of Johannesburg.