Preambules

Preambules are the plural form of the term used in several languages to denote the introductory section of a legal or formal document. The closest English equivalent is “preamble.” Preambules appear in constitutions, treaties, charters, statutes, and declarations, and they often set out the document’s aims, values, and historical background.

A preambule typically explains the purpose of the instrument, the principles it affirms (such as liberty, equality, justice, or human rights), and the circumstances surrounding its adoption. It may reference the sources of authority or the aspirations of the populations who enacted the instrument. It usually does not contain operative provisions themselves.

Legal status of preambules varies. In many jurisdictions they are considered non-binding or persuasive, but they can influence interpretation of the operative articles. In some constitutional systems, the preambule is treated as part of the constitution and may bear interpretive weight, as in certain judgments or constitutional texts.

Differences also exist across contexts: constitutional preambles, treaty preambles, and corporate charters each have distinct roles, but all serve to frame the document and guide reading and application of its provisions. Examples include the preamble of the U.S. Constitution, the French constitution’s preamble, and the preambles found in Indian and Romanian constitutional texts. In some languages, such as Romanian or French, the term preambule or its variant is commonly used to describe these introductory sections.