- Types of Constitution
- Written and Unwritten Constitution
- Rigid and Flexible Constitution
- Federal and Unitary Constitution
- Presidential and Parliamentary Constitution
- Monarchical and Republican Constitution
- Democratic and Authoritarian Constitution
- Socialist and Capitalist Constitution
- Secular and Theocratic Constitution
- Indigenous and Colonial Constitution
- Hybrid and Pure Constitution
- Rule of Law
- Introduction
- What is Rule of Law
- Definition of rule of law
- Origin and History of Rule of Law
- Characteristics of Rule of Law
- Basic Principles of Rule of Law
- Exceptions to Rule of Law
- A.V. Dicey’s Theory of Rule of Law
- Postulates of Rule of Law
- Criticism of Dicey’s theory of rule of law
- Rule of law in India
- Application of rule of law in India
- Status of rule of law on International Level
- Judicial Independence
- Introduction
- Advantages
- Criticism
- Development
- International Standards
- Judicial Independence in Australia
- Judicial Independence in Canada
- Judicial Independence in Hong Kong
- Judicial Independence in India
- Judicial Independence in Singapore
- Judicial Independence in England and Wales
- Judicial Independence in United States
- Emergency Power and Crisis of Constitutionalism
Types of Constitution
Written and Unwritten Constitution
Written Constitution refers to a single, formal document that clearly defines the structure of government, the distribution of powers, and the rights and duties of citizens.
It is deliberately framed by a Constituent Assembly or a special body appointed for the purpose.
It provides legal supremacy, meaning any law inconsistent with it can be declared unconstitutional.
It usually requires a special procedure for amendments, making changes more complex.
Examples:
United States Constitution (1787) – The first written constitution in the world, which defines federalism, separation of powers, and fundamental rights.
Indian Constitution (1950) – The longest written constitution, incorporating elements from various other constitutions.
French Constitution (1958) – Governs the Fifth Republic of France, defining executive and legislative powers.
Unwritten Constitution is not codified in a single document but consists of various statutes, judicial decisions, conventions, and traditions.
Evolves over time through precedents and political customs rather than being framed at a specific moment in history.
It provides flexibility, allowing gradual adaptation without the need for formal amendments.
Examples:
United Kingdom – Relies on documents like the Magna Carta (1215), the Bill of Rights (1689), and established conventions.
New Zealand – Though largely unwritten, it is based on constitutional statutes like the Constitution Act (1986).