How constitution-making fails and what we can learn from it
Starts a conversation about the potential grounds for, and strategies to prevent or build on failure.
Abstract
Constitution-making is often integral to achieving a new political settlement after conflict and in fragile settings. However, the process fails with relative frequency, in that actors cannot agree on a new text or the finalized text is not approved or ratified. While failure may be temporary, the process may resume after a period of time, it can also be costly. Key reforms may depend on the adoption of a new or revised constitution, and in its absence negotiations may stall and conflict recur.
This is an output of the Peace and Conflict Resolution Evidence Platform (PEACEREP) programme.
Citation
Zulueta-Fülscher, K. Discussion Paper: How Constitution-making Fails and What We Can Learn from It. Ninth Edinburgh Dialogue on Post-Conflict Constitution-Building 2022. International IDEA 2023