Constitutions in OECD Countries: A Comparative Study
Background Report in the Context of Chile’s Constitutional Process
Chile has embarked on an ambitious path towards a new constitution. For all countries, drafting a new constitution or amending an existing one is a stimulating challenge, but also a demanding process from both a political and technical standpoint. This report presents the results of a benchmarking exercise conducted by the OECD of possible constitutional provisions, reflecting the experiences of OECD member countries. The components covered include economic and social rights, the system of government, multi-level governance, constitutional review, fiscal governance and the role and functioning of central banks.
Also available in: Spanish
Executive summary
Constitutions provide the essential framework that governs (and delineates) a nation’s political life, protecting crucial elements of a stable and thriving democracy, such as the separation of powers and the protection of fundamental rights. They also bring together the core values, national identity and collective vision for the future of a particular society, and ground citizens’ trust in government. In the context of the Chilean journey towards its new constitution, this report brings together lessons derived from constitutional frameworks across the OECD Membership, offering a range of design options to serve as background for the Constitutional Convention deliberations throughout 2021-22.
Also available in: Spanish
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