constituente

Constituente is a term used in Latin-derived languages with two related senses. As an adjective, it means forming a part of a whole or essential to its makeup. As a noun, it refers to a person or body authorized to draft, adopt, or amend a constitution. The word comes from Latin constituere, to set up or establish, and is connected to the idea of a constitution itself.

In political contexts, a Constituyente or Asamblea Constituyente is a legislative body elected or convened with the explicit task of drafting a new constitution or making significant constitutional reforms. Such bodies typically have special powers and a limited mandate, and their work ends with a constitutional text that may be submitted to popular ratification or to the legislature for approval.

Procedural details vary by country. Some assemblies are elected directly to draft a constitution and are dissolved after their work, while others operate as temporary or semi-permanent bodies with broader authority. Ratification methods also differ: a constitution may be adopted by referendum, by a parliamentary vote, or by a combination of both.

Notable examples in the Latin American context include Venezuela’s Constituyente of 1999, which produced a new constitution, Ecuador’s 2007–2008 Constituyente resulting in the 2008 constitution, and Bolivia’s 2006–2008 Constituyente contributing to the 2009 constitution. Similar processes have occurred in other regions as societies pursue constitutional reform and democratic reconfiguration.

See also: Constitution; Constitutional convention; Constituent assembly; Constitutional reform.