Constitution of federal Republic of Somali

The Constitution of Somalia, officially known as the Provisional Constitution of the Federal Republic of Somalia, outlines the key pillars and principles guiding the country’s governance. While the Constitution is provisional and was adopted in 2012 with the aim of eventually replacing it with a permanent one, it still serves as the foundational legal document for Somalia. The main pillars of the Somali Constitution are:

1. Federalism

? ?- Federal Structure: Somalia is defined as a federal republic composed of various federal member states. The Constitution outlines the division of powers between the federal government and the federal member states, emphasizing decentralization and local governance.

2. Sovereignty and Territorial Integrity

? ?- Unity and Sovereignty: The Constitution affirms the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and political independence of Somalia. It recognizes the importance of maintaining the unity of the nation while allowing for regional autonomy.

3. Islam and Sharia

? ?- Religion: Islam is declared as the state religion, and Sharia (Islamic law) is recognized as the source of legislation. All laws must be consistent with the principles of Sharia.

? ?- Religious Freedom: While Islam is the official religion, the Constitution also guarantees freedom of religious practice for all citizens, provided it does not violate public order or morality.

4. Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms

? ?- Human Rights: The Constitution contains an extensive Bill of Rights that guarantees a wide range of civil, political, economic, social, and cultural rights. These include the right to life, equality before the law, freedom of expression, and protection from discrimination.

? ?- Gender Equality: The Constitution emphasizes the promotion of gender equality, guaranteeing equal rights for women and men, and prohibits all forms of violence against women.

5. Democracy and Rule of Law

? ?- Democratic Governance: The Constitution establishes Somalia as a democratic state, where the government is based on the principles of democracy, rule of law, and separation of powers.

? ?- Independent Judiciary: It guarantees the independence of the judiciary and the right to a fair trial, ensuring that the legal system operates free from political interference.

6. Separation of Powers

? ?- Executive, Legislative, and Judicial Branches: The Constitution clearly delineates the powers and functions of the three branches of government (executive, legislative, and judiciary) to ensure a system of checks and balances.

7. Security and Defense

? ?- National Security: The Constitution mandates the establishment of national defense and security forces under civilian control. It emphasizes the importance of protecting the country's sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its citizens.

8. Social Justice and Welfare

? ?- Social Welfare: The Constitution emphasizes the government’s responsibility to promote social justice, provide essential services like healthcare and education, and ensure the welfare of all citizens, particularly the most vulnerable.

9. Environment and Natural Resources

? ?- Environmental Protection: The Constitution recognizes the importance of protecting the environment and managing natural resources sustainably for the benefit of current and future generations.

10. National Unity and Reconciliation

? ?- Reconciliation: The Constitution promotes national unity, reconciliation, and peaceful coexistence among Somalia’s diverse communities. It acknowledges the country’s history of conflict and the need for continued efforts to heal divisions.

These pillars are designed to guide the governance of Somalia, promote peace and stability, and ensure the protection of fundamental rights and freedoms for all citizens.