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About: THE COMMISSION

The Oxford Commission on Constitutions [OCC] is dedicated to the study of constitutional issues nationally, regionally, and internationally. The basic premise is that the constitutional order is a foundational feature of a nation, that a well-functioning constitution is essential to effective government, to prosperity, and to the well-being of the people.

Each nation moulds its constitution, and the system of government established pursuant to it, according to its history, its social and economic composition, and its political culture. Some aspects of a constitutional order are local to each nation according to the conditions and values of the time; other aspects are common to all constitutions, to all systems of government.

About: OUR RESEARCH

In order to understand constitutions in their several dimensions, research is essential. There are a range of issues to consider:

  • The text itself, its language and mode of discourse
     

  • The principles and values on which the constitution is based
     

  • The agencies and institutions created by the text
     

  • The relationship between the constitutional order and other aspects of society, economics, and politics
     

  • The conditions necessary for a successful constitution, successful in the sense that it creates an effective system of government in which the people acquiesce
     

Research must cover these various aspects. It must draw on several disciplines: law, socio-legal, economics, politics, history, and sociology. Much can be learnt from comparative study across constitutional orders.

“Constitution is not a mere lawyers document, it is a vehicle of Life, and its spirit is always the spirit of Age.”

( Bhimrao Ramji Ambedkar)

About: OUR VALUES

The OCC is designed and equipped to conduct reliable, comprehensive research. Its members and staff are:

  • drawn from a range of disciplines
     

  • highly qualified
     

  • have extensive experience of research
     

  • represent a diversity of national backgrounds and experience
     

Directors and members of the Advisory Board are  experienced in conceiving and designing research projects and also well qualified to provide expert advice and guidance to contribute to the effective execution of these projects.

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