Konstitutsiya

Konstitutsiya is the supreme law of a state, a foundational legal document that sets out the basic principles of government, defines the powers and responsibilities of state institutions, and guarantees the fundamental rights of citizens. The term is used in many languages, including Uzbek, Russian, and Turkish, to denote a country’s constitution.

Constitutions establish the framework for governing, specify the separation of powers among legislative, executive, and judicial branches, and determine how laws are made and enforced. They describe the structure of government, the division of powers between central and regional authorities (in federal systems), and the rules for elections and the formation of public offices. Most constitutions also enshrine a list or catalogue of fundamental rights and freedoms that the state must protect.

Constitutions can be written, codified documents or unwritten, relying on statutes, case law, and constitutional conventions. They typically include a preamble, articles or chapters outlining principles, rights, and institutions, and provisions on amendment procedures and transitional arrangements. Amendment rules vary, often requiring supermajorities, referendums, or additional safeguards to balance stability with the possibility of reform.

Historically, constitutional ideas emerged from ancient traditions and modern revolutions. The United States Constitution (1787) is a landmark example, while many other states adopted or revised constitutions in the 19th, 20th, and 21st centuries. Constitutional law governs the powers of government and protects civil liberties, providing a standard against which laws and government actions are measured. Courts with constitutional jurisdiction interpret the text and resolve disputes about rights, powers, and procedures.