Promulgation

Promulgation is the formal act of officially proclaiming a law, regulation, decree, or treaty so that it becomes binding and known to the public. It is typically the final step in the adoption process, following passage by a legislative body and, when required, signature by a head of state or other authority. Promulgation involves official publication or notification in an authorized medium, such as a government gazette or official journal, to inform the public and establish a precise record of the text and its effective date.

In many jurisdictions, a law may be promulgated but not immediately in force; an explicit effective date or transitional period is often specified. In civil law systems, promulgation commonly marks the binding entry into force, with the gazette publication serving as the moment from which the law is enforceable. In some common law countries, the term is used less for ordinary statutes and more for formal proclamations, royal decrees, or executive proclamations, though publication is still required for enforceability.

For treaties and international agreements, promulgation refers to the domestic declaration or recording of the obligation, enabling enforcement under national law. Etymology traces to Latin promulgate, meaning “to publish, make public.” Related concepts include proclamation, enactment, publication, and entry into force.