Image for Venezuela's 1999 Constitution

Venezuela's 1999 Constitution

The 1999 Venezuelan Constitution established a new framework for the country's government, emphasizing social rights, citizen participation, and decentralization. It created a socialist-oriented state with a strong executive branch led by the President, while also recognizing indigenous peoples’ rights and democratic principles. The constitution promotes social justice, establishes new rights like housing and healthcare, and sets the foundation for a participatory democracy through mechanisms like referendums and popular consultations. Overall, it aimed to modernize governance, increase social equity, and redefine national identity, marking a significant shift from previous constitutional arrangements.