Põhiseaduslikust

Põhiseaduslikust is the genitive form of the Estonian adjective põhiseaduslik, and it appears in legal and political usage to refer to the concept of constitutionalism or to the constitutional order itself. In Estonian discourse, words such as põhiseaduslikkus (constitutionalism) and põhiseaduslikkuse tagamine (ensuring constitutionality) are common, and põhiseaduslikust often appears within phrases describing aspects of the legal system that are governed by the constitution.

Constitutionalism denotes the principle that governmental power derives from and is limited by a written constitution. Core elements include the supremacy of the constitution, the rule of law, and the separation of powers among state institutions. Under this framework, laws and administrative actions must conform to constitutional provisions, and fundamental rights are protected against unlawful government interference. Constitutional review mechanisms are typically established to assess the constitutionality of acts and decrees and to resolve disputes about constitutional rights.

In Estonia, the Constitution (Põhiseadus) is the supreme legal act, outlining the structure of state institutions, the processes by which laws are made, and the framework for protecting individual rights. The Riigikohus (Supreme Court) conducts constitutional review of legislation and executive actions to ensure they comply with the Constitution. The concept of põhiseaduslikkus also interacts with Estonia’s obligations under international law and the European Union, which can influence constitutional interpretation and the balance between national and supranational norms.

The term is used across academic, judicial, and political contexts to discuss the legitimacy of state power, the protection of rights, and the procedures that maintain a constitutional order. See also: Põhiseadus, Põhiseaduslikkus, constitutional review.