This contribution makes an analysis of labour market intermediation services in France. In doing so, attention is paid to the developments and influences that made the labour market intermediation function evolve over time. The liberalisation and restructuring of the intermediation market in France is taken into account, seen the adoption of ILO Convention No. 181. While the public function remains unchallenged in the recruitment of unemployed people with rather low qualifi cation levels, private employment agencies today focus on qualified employees who are already in work, or individuals seeking outplacement. Nevertheless, the practical effects of free-market principles should not overestimated.