What is Written Constitution?
A written constitution is a formal document that outlines the fundamental rules and principles of a government. It serves as a detailed guide, specifying how the government is structured, how power is divided among its branches, and the rights and duties of its citizens. It’s like a blueprint for governance, containing all the essential laws and regulations in one place for easy reference. Countries with written constitutions, such as the United States or India, have typically undergone a deliberate process to draft and adopt these documents. Written constitutions are usually considered the highest law of the land, meaning that all other laws and government actions must adhere to its provisions. They are often more rigid and difficult to change compared to unwritten constitutions, requiring specific procedures for amendments. Nonetheless, they provide a clear and stable foundation for the functioning of the state and the protection of citizens’ rights.
Key Features of Written Constitution
- Clarity and Accessibility: A written constitution lays out the fundamental rules and principles of governance in a clear and easy-to-understand manner. Everything is documented in one place, making it accessible for citizens, lawmakers, and judges to reference.
- Formalized Government Structure: It defines the structure of the government, including the powers and limitations of each branch. This formalization helps prevent abuses of power and ensures a system of checks and balances.
- Rigidity and Amendment Procedures: Written constitutions are often harder to change compared to unwritten ones. They typically have specific procedures for amendments, requiring broad consensus or popular approval to make alterations. This rigidity protects the core principles of the constitution from arbitrary changes.
- Legal Supremacy: In countries with a written constitution, it is considered the highest law of the land. This means that all other laws and government actions must comply with its provisions. Courts have the authority to invalidate laws or actions that violate constitutional principles, ensuring adherence to the rule of law.
Difference between Written and Unwritten Constitution
Constitution is a formal document. They show how things are organized, who’s in charge, and what they can do. There are two main kinds: written and unwritten. Written ones are official documents, like the U.S. Constitution. They’re all written down in one place. Unwritten ones are more like a mix of traditions, laws, and customs that build up over time. Both types shape how countries are run and how people’s rights are protected.
Table of Content
- What is Written Constitution?
- What is Unwritten Constitution?
- Difference Between Written and Unwritten Constitution
- Conclusion
- Difference Between Written and Unwritten Constitution- FAQs