Constitutional reform

Constitutions provide an overarching legal framework that set out the basis of a social contract between State and its people. They establish the institutions of government and their powers vis-à-vis each other and the people. UNDP supports participatory, inclusive, transparent constitution-making processes that help build consensus around a shared vision of society.

In support of national constitutional reform efforts, UNDP provides technical assistance to Member States on substantive constitutional issues, such as power-sharing, federalism/decentralization, public accountability and fundamental rights. UNDP supports building capacity of constitution-making bodies for effective civic education and public consultation programmes. UNDP also prioritizes inclusion through engagment with women, youth, and marginalized groups in the constitutional process.

UNDP has provided constitutional support to countries with UN Missions such as Liberia, Libya, and Somalia, and in non-mission settings, such as Bolivia, Kenya, Nepal, Sierra Leone, and Tunisia. UNDP works very closely with the UN Department of Political Affairs and other partners throughout and outside the UN system.