Syria has a Sunni muslim majority.
5000 B.C.: First habitations on the territory of today's Syria.
1800 B.C.: Today's north-east city 'Tell Leilan' was established as the capital 'Shubat Enlil' by Assyrian King Shamshi-Adad I.
333 B.C.: Syria becomes part of Alexander the Great's empire.
64 B.C.: Syria becomes a province of the Roman Empire.
300: Syria becomes a Bycantine province.
1922: League of Nations declares French mandate over Syria.
1946: Independence from France after British rule, the country becomes a republic and a charter member of the United Nations .
1967: Syria loses the Gloan Heights to Israel.
1973: Assad initially succeeds in a surprise attack on Israel.
1982: Hama insurrection of Sunni muslims against the regime of President Assad, who is a member of a small Shia sect; thousands of civilians are dying in the bombardment of the city.
10 June 2000: Death of Assad; immediate proclamation of his son Bashar as new Baath leader and successor.
The ICL-Edition of Syria's Constitution only covers the initial 1973 version. We do not yet have information about amendments.
Adoptedon: 13 March 1973
The Arab nationmanaged to perform a great role inbuilding human civilization when it was a unified nation. When the ties of its national cohesion weakened, its civilizing rolereceded and the waves of colonial conquest shattered the Arab nation's unity,occupied its territory, and plundered its resources. Our Arab nation has withstood these challenges and rejectedthe reality of division, exploitation, and backwardness out of its faith in itsability to surmount this reality and return to the arena of history in order toplay, together with the other liberated nations, its distinctive role in theconstruction of civilization and progress.
With the close of the first half of thiscentury, the Arab people's struggle has been expanding and assuming greaterimportance in various countries to achieve liberation from direct colonialism.
The Arab masses did not regardindependence as their goal and the end of their sacrifices, but as a means toconsolidate their struggle, and as an advanced phase in their continuing battleagainst the forces of imperialism, Zionism, and exploitation under theleadership of their patriotic and progressive forces in order to achieve theArab nation's goals of unity, freedom, and socialism.
In the Syrian Arab region, the masses ofour people continued their struggle after independence. Through their progressive march they were able to achieve their bigvictory by setting off the revolution of 8 March 1963 under the leadership ofthe Socialist Arab Baath Party, which has made authority an instrument to servethe struggle for the construction of the United Socialist Arab society.
The Socialist Arab Baath Party is thefirst movement in the Arab homeland which gives Arab unity its soundrevolutionary meaning, connects the nationalist with the socialist struggle, andrepresents the Arab nation's will and aspirations for a future that will bindthe Arab nation with its glorious past and will enable it to carry out its rolein achieving victory for the cause of freedom of all the peoples.
Through the party's militant struggle,the 16 Nov 1970 corrective movement responded to our people's demands andaspirations. This correctivemovement was an important qualitative development and a faithful reflection ofthe party's spirit, principles, and objectives. It created the appropriate atmosphere for the fulfillment of a numberof significant projects in the interest of our large masses, primarily theemergence of the state of the Confederation of Arab Republics in response to thecall for unity, which figures prominently in the Arab conscience, which wasbuttressed by the joint Arab struggle against imperialism and Zionism,regionalist disputes, and separatist movements, and which was confirmed by thecontemporary Arab revolution against domination and exploitation.
Under the aegis of the correctivemovement, an important stop was taken on the road leading to the consolidationof national unity for our popular masses. Underthe leadership of the socialist Arab Baath Party, a national and progressivefront with developed conceptions emerged in such a manner as to meet our people'sneeds and interests and proceed toward unifying the instrument of the Arabrevolution in a unified political organization.
The completion of this Constitutioncrowns our people's struggle on the road of the principle of popular democracy,is a clear guide for the people's march toward the future and a regulator of themovement of the state and its various institutions, and is a source of itslegislation.
The Constitution is based on thefollowing major principles:
1) The comprehensive Arab revolution isan existing and continuing necessity to achieve the Arab nation's aspirationsfor unity, freedom, and socialism. Therevolution in the Syrian Arab region is part of the comprehensive Arabrevolution. Its policy in all areasstems from the general strategy of the Arab revolution.
2) Under the reality of division, all theachievements by any Arab country will fail to fully achieve their scope and willremain subject to distortion and setback unless these achievements arebuttressed and preserved by Arab unity. Likewise,any danger to which any Arab country may be exposed on the part of imperialismand Zionism is at the same time a danger threatening the whole Arab nation.
3) The march toward the establishment ofa socialist order besides being a necessity stemming from the Arab society'sneeds, is also a fundamental necessity for mobilizing the potentialities of theArab masses in their battle with Zionism and imperialism.
4) Freedom is a sacred right and populardemocracy is the ideal formulation which insures for the citizen the exercise ofhis freedom which makes him a dignified human being capable of giving andbuilding, defending the homeland in which he lives, and making sacrifices forthe sake of the nation to which he belongs. The homeland's freedom can only be preserved by its free citizens. The citizen's freedom can be completed only by his economic and socialliberation.
5) The Arab revolution movement is afundamental part of the world liberation movement. Our Arab people's struggle forms a part of the struggle of the peoplesfor their freedom, independence, and progress.
This constitution serves as a guide foraction to our people's masses so that they will continue the battle forliberation and construction guided by its principles and provisions in order tostrengthen the positions of our people's struggle and to drive their marchtoward the aspired future.
Article 1 [Arab Nation, Socialist Republic]
(1) The Syrian Arab Republic is a democratic,popular, socialist, and sovereign state. Nopart of its territory can be ceded. Syriais a member of the Union of the Arab Republics.
(2) The Syrian Arab region is a part ofthe Arab homeland.
(3) The people in the Syrian Arab regionare a part of the Arab nation. Theywork and struggle to achieve the Arab nation's comprehensive unity.
Article 2 [Republic, Sovereignty]
(1) The governmental system of the SyrianArab region is a republican system.
(2) Sovereignty is vested in the people,who exercise it in accordance with this Constitution.
Article 3 [Islam]
(1) The religion of the President of theRepublic has to be Islam.
(2) Islamic jurisprudence is a mainsource of legislation.
Article 4 [Language, Capital]
The Arab language is the officiallanguage. The capital is Damascus.
Article 6 [Flag, Emblem, Anthem]
The state flag, emblem, and the nationalanthem are the flag, emblem, and the national anthem of the Union of the ArabRepublics.
Article 7 [Oat]
The constitutional oath is asfollows:<BR>
"I swear by God the Almighty to sincerely preservethe republican, democratic, and popular system, respect the constitution and thelaws, watch over the interests of the people and the security of the homeland,and work and struggle for the realization of the Arab nation's aims of unity,freedom, and socialism."
Article 8 [Baath Party]
The leading party in the society and thestate is the Socialist Arab Baath Party. Itleads a patriotic and progressive front seeking to unify the resources of thepeople's masses and place them at the service of the Arab nation's goals.
Article 9 [Organizations]
Popular organizations and cooperativeassociations are establishments which include the people's forces working forthe development of society and for the realization of the interests of itsmembers.
Article 10 [People's Councils]
People's councils are establishmentselected in a democratic way at which the citizens exercise their rights inadministering the state and leading the society.
Article 11 [Armed Forces]
The armed forces<ICL_5255> and other defense organizations areresponsible for the defense of the homeland's territory and for the protectionof the revolution's objectives of unity, freedom, and socialism.
Article 12
The state is at the people's service. Its establishments seeks to protect the fundamental rights of thecitizens and develop their lives. Italso seeks to support the political organizations in order to bring aboutself‑development.
Article 13 [Economy]
(1) The state economy is a plannedsocialist economy which seeks to end all forms of exploitation.
(2) The region's economic planning servesin achieving economic integration in the Arab homeland.
Article 14 [Ownership]
The law regulates ownership, which is ofthree kinds:
(1) Public ownership includes naturalresources, public utilities, and nationalized installations and establishments,as well as installations and establishments set up by the state. The state undertakes to exploit and to supervise theadministration of this property in the interest of the entire people. It is the duty of the citizens to protect this property.
(2) Collective ownership includes theproperty belonging to popular and professional organizations and to productionunits, cooperatives, and other social establishments. The law guarantees its protection and support.
(3) Individual ownership includesproperty<ICL_622>belonging to individuals. The lawdefines its social task in serving the national economy within the framework ofthe development plan. This propertyshould not be used in ways contrary to the people's interests.
Article 15 [Expropriation]
(1) Individual ownership may not beexpropriated except for public interest and in return for just compensation inaccordance with the law.
(2) The public seizure of funds ispermissible.
(3) Private seizure cannot be effectedexcept through a judicial decision.
(4) Private seizure ordered by law ispermissible in return for just compensation.
Article 16 [Agricultural Ownership]
The law defines the maximum ofagricultural ownership in a manner that guarantees the protection of thefarmer and of the agricultural worker against exploitation and insures increasein production.
Article 17 [Inheritance]
The right of inheritance is guaranteed inaccordance with the law.
Article 18 [Savings]
Saving is a national duty protected,encouraged, and organized by the state.
Article 19 [Taxes]
Taxes are imposed on an equitable andprogressive bases which achieve the principles of equality and social justice.
Article 20
The exploitation of private and jointeconomic foundations must seek to meet the social needs, increase the nationalincome, and achieve the people's prosperity.
Article 21 [Goals]
The educational and cultural system aimsat creating a socialist nationalist Arab generation which is scientificallyminded and attached to its history and land, proud of its heritage, and filledwith the spirit of struggle to achieve its nation's objectives of unity, freedom,and socialism, and to serve humanity and its progress.
Article 22 [Progress]
The educational system has to guaranteethe people's continuous progress and adapt itself to the ever‑developingsocial, economic, and cultural requirements of the people.
Article 23 [Socialist Education, Arts, Sports]
(1) The nationalist socialist educationis the basis for building the unified socialist Arab society. It seeks to strengthen moral values, to achieve the higherideals of the Arab nation, to develop the society, and to serve the causes ofhumanity. The state undertakes toencourage and to protect this education.
(2) The encouragement of artistic talentsand abilities is one of the bases of the progress and development of society,artistic creation is based on close contact with the people's life. The state fosters the artistic talents and abilities of all citizens.
(3) Physical education is a foundationfor the building of society. Thestate encourages physical education to form a physically, mentally, and morallystrong generation.
Article 24 [Science, Intellectual Property]
(1)Science, scientific research, and allscientific achievements are basic elements for the progress of the socialistArab society. Comprehensivesupport is extended by the state.
(2) The state protects the rights ofauthors and inventors who serve the people's interests.
Article 25 [Personal Freedom, Dignity, Equality]
(1) Freedom is a sacred right. The state protects the personal freedom of the citizens and safeguardstheir dignity and security.
(2) The supremacy of law is a fundamentalprinciple in the society and the state.
(3) The citizens are equal<ICL_63>before the law in their rights and duties.
(4) The state insures the principle ofequal opportunities for citizens.
Article 26 [Participation]
Every citizen has the right to participatein the political, economic, social, and cultural life. The law regulates this participation.
Article 27 [Boundaries of the Law]
Citizens exercise their rights and enjoytheir freedoms in accordance with the law.
Article 28 [Defense]
(1) Every defendant is presumed innocentuntil proven guilty by a final judicial decision.
(2) No one may be kept under surveillanceor detained except in accordance with the law.
(3) No one may be tortured physically ormentally or be treated in a humiliating manner. The law defines the punishment of whoever commits such an act.
(4) The right of litigation, contest, anddefense before the judiciary is safeguarded by the law.
Article 29 [Criminal Laws]
What constitutes a crime or penalty canonly be determined by law.
Article 30 [Retroactive Laws]
Laws are binding only following the dateof their enactment and cannot be retroactive. In other than penal cases, the contrary may be stipulated.
Article 31 [Home]
Homes are inviolable. They may not be entered or searched except under conditions specified bylaw.
Article 32 [Secrecy of Communication]
The privacy of postal and telegraphiccontacts is guaranteed.
Article 33 [Residence, Move]
(1) A citizen may not be deported fromthe homeland.
(2) Every citizen has the right to movewithin the state's territory unless forbidden to do so by a judicial sentence orin implementation of public health and safety laws.
Article 34 [Asylum]
Political refugees cannot be extraditedbecause of their political principles or their defense of freedom.
Article 35 [Religion]
(1) The freedom of faith is guaranteed. The state respects all religions.
(2) The state guarantees the freedom tohold any religious rites, provided they do not disturb the public order.
Article 36 [Work]
(1) Work is a right and duty<ICL_684>of every citizen. The stateundertakes to provide work for all citizens.
(2) Every citizen has the right to earnhis wage according to the nature and yield of the work. The state must guarantee this.
(3) The state fixes working hours,guarantees social security, and regulates rest and leave rights and variouscompensations and rewards for workers.
Article 37 [Free Education]
Education is a right guaranteed by thestate. Elementary education iscompulsory and all education is free. Thestate undertakes to extend compulsory education to other levels and to superviseand guide education in a manner consistent with the requirements of society andof production.
Article 38 [Expression]
Every citizen has the right to freely andopenly express<ICL_6242>his views in words, in writing, and through all other means of expression<ICL_6242>. He also has the right to participate in supervision and constructivecriticism in a manner that safeguards the soundness of the domestic and nationaliststructure and strengthens the socialist system. The state guarantees the freedom of the press, of printing, andpublication in accordance with the law.
Article 39 [Assembly]
Citizens have the right to meet anddemonstrate peacefully within the principles of the Constitution. The law regulates the exercise of this right.
Article 40 [Defense]
(1) All citizens have the sacred duty todefend the homeland's security, to respect its Constitution and socialistunionist system.
(2) Military service is compulsory andregulated by law.
Article 41 [Taxes]
The payment of taxes and public expensesis a duty in accordance with the law.
Article 42 [Preservation of Unity]
It is a duty of every citizen to preservethe national unity and to protect state secrets.
Article 43 [Citizenship]
The law regulates Syrian Arab citizenshipand guarantees special facilities for the Syrian Arab expatriates and their sonsand for the citizens of the Arab countries.
Article 44 [Family, Marriage, Children]
(1) The family is the basic unit ofsocity and is protected by the state.
(2) The state protects and encouragesmarriage and eliminates the material and social obstacles hindering it. The state protects mothers and infants<ICL_646>and exteds care to adolescents and youths and provides them with the suitablecircumstances to develop their faculties.
Article 45 [Women]
The state guarantees women allopportunities enabling them to fully and effectively participate in thepolitical, social, cultural, and economic life. The state removes the restrictions that prevent women's development andparticipation in building the socialist Arab society.
Article 46 [Insurance, Welfare]
(1) The state insures every citizen andhis family in cases of emergency, illness, disability, orphanhood, and old age.
(2) The state protects the citizens'health and provides them with the means of protection, treatment, and medication.
Article 47 [Services]
The state guarantees cultural, social,and health services. It especiallyundertakes to provide these services to the village in order to raise iststandard.
Article 48 [Organizations]
The popular sectors have the right toestablish unionist, social, professional organizations, and productioncooperatives. The framework of theorganizations, their relations, and the scope of their work is defined by law.
Article 49 [Organizational Functions]
The popular organizations by laweffectively participate in the various sectors and councils to realize thefollowing:
(1) Building the socialist Arab societyand defending the system.
(2) Planning and guiding of the socialisteconomy.
(3) Development of work conditions,safety, health, culture, and all other affairs pertaining to the lives of theorganization members.
(4) Achievement of scientific andtechnical progress and the development of the means of production.
(5) Popular supervision of the machineryof government.
Article 50 [People's Assembly]
(1) ThePeople's Assembly<ICL_532>assumes legislative power in the manner defined in this Constitution.
(2) The members of the People's Assemblyare elected by general, secret, direct, and equal ballot in accordance with theprovisions of the election law.
Article 51 [Term]
ThePeople's Assembly is elected for 4years beginning on the date of its first meeting. This term can be extended by law only in the state of war.
Article 52 [Representation]
A member of the People's Assemblyrepresents the whole people. Hismandate may not be limited by any restrictions or conditions. He must exercise his mandate guided by his honor and conscience.
Article 53 [Membership]
The law defines the electoral districtsand the number of the members of the People's Assembly, provided that at leasthalf their number are workers and peasants. The law defines the terms: worker and peasant.
Article 54 [Voters]
Voters are citizens of at least 18 yearsof age who are listed in the civil status register and who meet the conditionsspecified in the election law.
Article 55 [Election, Referendum]
The law provides for elections andplebiscites. It defines theconditions to be met by members of the People's Assembly.
Article 56 [State Worker Candidacy]
Stateworkers, including public sectorworkers, may nominate themselves for membership in the Assembly. Except in the cases defined by law, the elected member maytake a leave in order to join the Assembly. His position or work is reserved for him and the period of leave isregarded as active duty.
Article 57 [Electoral Guarantees]
The election<ICL_6271> law must include provisionsguaranteeing:
1) Freedom of the voters in electingtheir representatives and integrity of the election.
2) The right of the candidates to watchover the voting.
3) Punishment for those who tamper withthe will of the voters.
Article 58 [Continuous Assembly]
(1) The elections are to be held within90 days following the date of the expiration of the Assembly's term.
(2) The People's Assembly reconvenes inaccordance with the law if no other Assembly is elected. It convenes after the lapse of 90 days and remains in office until a newAssembly is elected.
Article 59 [Vacancies]
If a seat becomes vacant for any reason,a member is elected to this seat within 90 days after the vacancy, provided theremaining period of the Assembly's term is not less than 6 months. Membership of the new member ends with expiration of the Assembly's term. The election law defines the conditions of membership vacancies.
Article 60 [First Meeting]
(1) The People's Assembly is invited tomeet by a decree issued by the President of the Republic within 15 daysbeginning on the date of the announcement of the results of the elections. The Assembly meets in accordance with the law on the 16th day if nodecree is inviting the Assembly to hold a session.
(2) At its first meeting, the Assemblyelects its President and the members of its secretariat.
Article 61 [Sessions]
ThePeople's Assembly is convened inthree ordinary sessions yearly. Itmay also be convened in extraordinary sessions. The Assembly's table of organization sets the dates and periods of thesessions. The Assembly is invitedto meet at extraordinary sessions by a decision of the President of the Assembly,at the written request of the President of the Republic, or at the request ofone‑third of the members of the Assembly.
Article 62 [Electoral Control]
ThePeople's Assembly rules on thevalidity of the membership of its members if it is challenged in light ofinvestigations undertaken by the Supreme Constitutional Court within one monthof the Assembly's notification of the Court's verdict. A member's membership in the Assembly is invalidated only bya majority vote of its members.
Article 63 [Oath]
Before assuming office, each member ofthe Assembly publicly takes before the Assembly the oath specified in Article <A HREF="#A007_">7</a>.
Article 64 [Remuneration]
The compensations and allowances forthe members of the Assembly are defined by law.
Article 65 [Internal Organization]
ThePeople's Assembly lays down itsinternal organization to regulate the mode of work and the manner of carryingout its duties.
Article 66 [Indemnity]
Members of the Assembly are notaccountable before criminal or civil courts for any occurrences or views theyexpress, in voting in public or secret sessions, or in the activities of thevarious committees.
Article 67 [Immunity]
Members of the Assembly enjoyimmunity throughout the term of the Assembly. Unless they are apprehended in the act of committing a crime, no penalmeasures can be taken against any member without the advance permission of theAssembly. When the Assembly is notin session, permission must be obtained from the President of the Assembly. As soon as it convenes, the Assembly is notified of the measures taken.
Article 68 [Incompatibility]
(1) An Assembly member may not takeadvantage of his Assembly membership in any activities.
(2) The law defines the activitieswhich are incompatible with membership in the Assembly.
Article 69 [President, Guard]
(1) The President of the People'sAssembly represents, signs, and speaks on behalf of the Assembly.
(2) The Assembly has a spacial guardwhich accepts the orders of the President of the Assembly. No other armed force may enter the Assembly building without permissionof the President of the Assembly.
Article 70 [Membership Rights]
The members of the Assembly have theright to propose bills and address questions and inquiries to the cabinet or anyminister in accordance with the Assembly's internal organization.
Article 71 [Powers]
ThePeople's Assembly assumes thefollowing powers:
1) Nomination of the President of theRepublic.
2) Approval of the laws<ICL_5323>.
3) Debate of cabinetpolicy.
4) Approval of the general budget anddevelopment plans.
5) Approval of international treatiesand agreements connected with state security; namely, peace and alliancetreaties, all treaties connected with the rights of sovereignty or agreementswhich grant concessions to foreign companies or establishments, as well astreaties and agreements which entail expenditures of the state treasury notincluded in the treasury's budget, and treaties and agreements which run counterto the provisions of the laws in force or treaties and agreements which requirepromulgation of new legislation to be implemented.
6) Approval of generalamnesty.
7) Acceptance or rejection of theresignation of a member of the Assembly.
8) Withholding confidence in thecabinet or a minister.
Article 72 [Vote of No Confidence]
Confidence may not be withheldwithout the interrogation of the cabinet or a minister. A request for withholding confidence has to be made inaccordance with a proposal submitted by at least one‑fifth of the membersof the Assembly. Confidence inthe cabinet or a minister may be withheld by a majority of the members of theAssembly. In the event of noconfidence in the cabinet, the Prime Minister must submit the cabinet'sresignation to the President of the Republic. A minister from whom confidence has been withheld must also resign.
Article 73 [Committees]
The Assembly forms provisional committeesfrom its members to collect information and to find facts on the subjectsconcerning the exercising of its jurisdiction.
Article 74 [Budget]
The draft budget<ICL_5325> is submitted to the Assembly twomonths before the beginning of the fiscal year. The budget is not in force unless it is approved by the Assembly.
Article 75 [Budge Vote]
Voting on the budget is chapter bychapter. The method of preparingthe budget is defined by law.
Article 76 [Fiscal Year]
Every fiscal year has one budget andthe beginning of the fiscal year is defined by law.
Article 77 [Continuing Budget]
If the Assembly fails to approve thebudget before the beginning of the new fiscal year, the previous fiscal yearremains in force until approval of the new fiscal year. Revenues are obtained in accordance with the laws still in force.
Article 78 [Budget Changes]
No change in the budget's chapters ispermissible except in accordance with provisions of the law.
Article 79 [Budget Amendments]
During study of the budget, theAssembly has no right to increase the estimates of revenues and expenditures.
Article 80 [New Expenditures]
After approval of the budget, theAssembly can approve laws on new expenditures and revenues.
Article 81 [Tax Laws]
It is not permissible to impose taxes,to modify taxes, or to cancel taxes except by law.
Article 82
Final accounts for the fiscal yearare submitted to the Assembly within two years of the end of that year. The settlement of accounts should be made by law. Amounts to be applied to the settlement of accounts should be applied tothe budget, subject to approval.
Article 83 [Eligibility]
A candidate for the presidency mustbe an Arab Syrian, enjoying his civil and political rights, and be over 40 yearsof age.
Article 84 [Election]
Upon the proposal of the ArabSocialist Baath Party regional command, the Assembly issues the order forelection of the President:
1) the candidacy is proposed to thecitizens for referendum;
2) the referendum takes place uponthe request of the President of the Assembly;
3) the new president is electedbefore termination of the term of the present President, within a period of notless than 30 days and not more than 60 days;
4) the candidate becomes President ofthe Republic if he obtains an absolute majority of the total votes. If he fails to obtain this majority, the Assembly namesanother candidate. The sameprocedures are followed concerning the election, provided this takes placewithin 1 month from the time the results of the first plebiscite were announced.
Article 85 [Term]
The President of the Republic iselected for 7 years according to the Christian calendar, beginning at the dateof the expiration of the term of the incumbent President.
Article 86 [Incapacity]
If any temporary incapacity preventsthe President of the Republic from carrying out his duties, the Vice Presidenttakes his place.
Article 87 [Resignation]
If the President of the Republicwishes to resign, he must submit his resignation to the Assembly.
Article 88 [Re-Election]
The first Vice President of theRepublic or the Vice President named by the President, carries out thePresident's duties if the President fails to do so. If the incapacity is permanent or in case of death or resignation, areferendum takes place to elect a new President in accordance with theprovisions of Article <A HREF="#A084_">84</a>, within a period not exceeding 90days. If the Assembly is dissolvedor if its term is due to expire in less than 90 days, the first Vice Presidentcarries out the President's duties until the new Assembly convenes.
Article 89 [Vacancy]
If the post of President becomesvacant and there is no Vice President, the Prime Minister exercises all thePresident's powers and jurisdictions until a new President is elected by meansof referendum within 90 days.
Article 90 [Oath]
Before taking his post, the Presidenttakes the constitutional oath before the People's Assembly in accordance withArticle <A HREF="#A007_">7</a>.
Article 91 [Liability]
The President cannot be held responsiblefor actions pertaining directly to his duties, except in the case of hightreason. A request for hisindictment requires a proposal of at least one‑third of the members of thePeople's Assembly and an Assembly decision adopted by a two‑thirdsmajority in an open vote at a special secret session. His trial takes place only before the Supreme Constitutional Court.
Article 92 [Remuneration]
The protocol, privileges, andcompensation of the post of the President of the Republic are established bylaw.
Article 93 [Functions]
(1) The President of the Republicinsures respect for the Constitution, the orderly functioning of publicauthorities, and the preservation of the state.
(2) The President<ICL_51> of the Republic exercises executiveauthority on behalf of the people within the limits defined in this Constitution.
The President of the Republic,through consultation with the cabinet, lays down the state's general policy andsupervise its implementation.
Article 95 [Appointments]
The President of the Republicappoints one or more Vice Presidents and delegates some of his duties to them. The President also appoints the Prime Minister and his deputies and theministers and their deputies, accepts their resignations, and dismisses themfrom their posts.
Article 96 [Oath]
Before assuming their posts, the VicePresidents take the Constitutional oath specified in Article <A HREF="#A007_">7</a> before the President of the Republic.
Article 97 [Cabinet Meeting, Reports]
The President of the Republic cancall a cabinet meeting under his Chairmanship. He can also request reports from the ministers.
Article 98 [Veto]
The President of the Republicpromulgates the laws approved by the People's Assembly, he may veto these lawsthrough a decision, giving the reasons for this objection, within a month aftertheir receipt by the President. Ifthe Assembly again approves them by a two‑thirds majority, the Presidentof the Republic has to issue them.
Article 99 [Decrees]
The President of the Republic issuesdecrees, decisions, and orders in accordance with the legislation in effect.
Article 100 [War and Peace]
The President of the Republic candeclare war and general mobilization and conclude peace following the approvalby the People's Assembly.
Article 101 [State of Emergency]
The President of the Republic candeclare and terminate a state of emergency in the manner stated in the law.
Article 102 [Diplomacy]
The President of the Republicaccredits the heads of diplomatic missions to foreign governments and acceptsthe accreditation of the heads of foreign diplomatic missions to him.
Article 103 [Commander-in-Chief]
The President of the Republic is thesupreme commander of the army and the armed forces. He issues all the necessary decisions and orders in exercising thisauthority. He can delegate some ofhis authority.
Article 104 [Treaties]
The President of the Republicratifies and abolishes internal treaties and agreements in accordance with theprovisions of the Constitution.
Article 105 [Amnesty]
The President of the Republic canissue amnesty and reinstatement decisions.
Article 106 [Decorations]
The President of the Republic canbestow decorations.
Article 107 [Dissolution of Parliament]
(1) The President of the Republic candissolve the People's Assembly through a decision giving the reasons. Elections are held within 90 days from the date of the dissolution.
(2) He may not dissolve the People'sAssembly more than once for the same reason.
Article 108 [Extraordinary Sessions, Addresses]
(1) The President of the Republic cancall on the People's Assembly to convene an extraordinary session.
(2) He can also address the Assemblythrough messages and can make statements before the Assembly.
Article 109 [Appointment of Officials]
The President of the Republicappoints civilian and military officials and terminates their services inaccordance with the law.
Article 110 [Initiative]
The President of the Republic maydraft project laws and submit them to the Assembly for approval.
Article 111 [Assuming Legislative Authority]
(1) The President of the Republicassumes legislative authority when the People's Assembly is not in session,provided that all the legislation issued by him is referred to the People'sAssembly in its first session.
(2) The President of the Republic canassume legislative authority even when the Assembly is in session if it isextremely necessary in order to safeguard the country's national interests orthe requirements of national security, provided that the legislation issued byhim is referred to the People's Assembly in its first session.
(3) The People's Assembly can abolishor amend the legislation as provided for in Paragraph (1) and (2), or by lawby a two‑thirds majority of the members attending the session, providedtheir number is not less than the Assembly's absolute majority and providedthat the amendment or abolition does not have a retroactive effect. If the Assembly does not abolish or amend this legislation, then it isconsidered legally approved and there will be no need for a vote on it.
(4) The President of the Republicassumes legislative authority in the interim period between two assemblies. Legislation issued by the President during this period is not referred tothe People's Assembly. Its validity as regards amendments or abrogation are the sameas with existing laws.
Article 112 [Referenda]
The President of the Republic canhold public referenda on important issues affecting the country's highestinterests. The results of thereferenda are binding and effective on the date of their promulgation. The President of the Republic issues the results.
Article 113 [Emergency Measures]
In case of a grave danger orsituation threatening national unity or the safety and independence of thehomeland or obstructing state institutions from carrying out theirconstitutional responsibilities, the President of the Republic can takeimmediate measures necessitated by these circumstances.
Article 114
The President of the Republic canform specialized organizations, councils, and committees. The powers and jurisdiction of these bodies are specified in thedecisions forming them.
Article 115 [Cabinet]
(1) The cabinet<ICL_525> is the state's highest executive andadministrative body. It consists ofthe President of the Council of Ministers, his deputies, and the ministers. It supervises the execution of the laws and regulations and the work ofthe state machinery and institutions.
(2) The President of the Council ofMinisters supervises the activities of the ministers.
(3) The compensations and allowancesof the President of the Council of Ministers, his deputies, the ministers, andtheir deputies are fixed by law.
Article 116 [Oath]
The President of the Council of Ministers,his deputies, and the ministers and their deputies take the constitutional oath,as specified in Article<A HREF="#A007_">7</a>, before the President of the Republic and before theyassume their responsibilities, whenever a new cabinet is formed. In the case of a cabinet reorganization, only the newministers takes the oath.
Article 117 [Responsibility]
The President of the Council ofMinisters and the ministers are responsible before the President of the Republic.
Article 118 [Policy Statements]
(1) Upon its formation, the cabinetsubmits a statement to the People's Assembly on its general policy and programsof action.
(2) The Cabinet submits annualstatements to the People's Assembly on implementation of the development plansand production progress.
Article 119 [Minister]
The Minister is the highestadministrative authority in his ministry. He carries out the state's general policy where it concerns his ministry.
Article 120 [Incompatibility]
While in office, the ministers arenot permitted to be members of the Board of Directors of any private company,act as its agents, participate in any commercial or industrial transaction, orundertake any liberal profession. Whilein office, the ministers are not permitted to be directly or indirectly involved in the contracts, tenders, or works carried out by the state ministries,departments, or establishments, or by public sector companies.
Article 121 [Liability]
The law defines the civil and penalresponsibilities of the ministers.
Article 122 [Continuing Cabinet]
On the expiration of the term of thePresident of the Republic or in the case of his permanent inability to dischargehis duties for any reason, the cabinet continues to manage the affairs of thestate until the new president names a new cabinet.
Article 123 [Criminal Liability]
The President of the Republic has aright to refer a minister to trial for whatever crimes he commits while in hispost or because of it, in accordance with provisions of the Constitution andthe law.
Article 124 [Suspension]
An accused minister is suspended assoon as the indictment is issued and until the court arrives at a decisionregarding the charges brought against him. His resignation or dismissal does not prevent committing him to trial. The trial and its procedures are in accordance with the law.
Article 125 [Compatibility]
Cabinet and People's Assembly membershipmay be combined.
Article 126 [Deputy Ministers]
The provisions applicable to theministers are also applicable to the deputy ministers.
Article 127 [Powers]
The cabinet has the following powers:
1) Participation with the Presidentof the Republic in drawing up and carrying out the state's general policy.
2) Steering, coordinating, and followingup the work of the ministries and all the state's public departments andestablishments.
3) Drawing up the state's generalbudget project.
4) Preparing draft laws.
5) Preparing the development plan,developing production, and exploiting national resources and everything thatwill strengthen the economy and increase the national income.
6) Contracting and granting loans inaccordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
7) Concluding agreements and treatiesin accordance with the provisions of the Constitution.
8) Following up the enforcement ofthe laws, preserving the state's security, and safeguarding the rights of thecitizens and the state's interest.
9) Issuing administrative and executivedecisions in accordance with laws and regulations, and supervising theirimplementation.
Article 128 [Other Powers]
In addition to the cabinet's powers,the Prime Minister and the ministers discharge the duties mentioned in validlegislation, provided they are not in conflict with the powers given to otherstate authorities by this Constitution.
Article 129 [Councils]
(1) The Local People's Councils<ICL_528>are bodies which exercise their powers within the administrative units inaccordance with the law.
(2) The administrative units aredefined in accordance with the provisions of the law.
Article 130 [Powers]
The law defines the powers of TheLocal People's Councils, the method of electing and forming them, the rights andduties of their members, and all relevant regulations.
Part 1 Court Judges and Public Prosecutors
Article 131 [Independence of the Judiciary]
The judicial authority<ICL_541> is independent. The President of the Republic guarantees this independence with theassistance of the Higher Council of the Judiciary.
Article 132 [Higher Council of the Judiciary]
The President of the Republicpresides over the Higher Council of the Judiciary. The law defines the method of its formulation, its powers, as well as itsinternal operating procedures.
Article 133 [Independence of Judges]
(1) Judges are independent<ICL_5421>. They are subject to no authority except that of the law.
(2) The honor, conscience, and impartialityof judges are guarantees of public rights and freedoms.
Article 134 [Sentences]
Sentences are issued in the name ofthe Arab people of Syria.
Article 135 [Organization]
The law organizes the judicial systemalong with its categories, types, and grades of judges. It also defines the regulations pertaining to the jurisdiction in thedifferent courts.
Article 136 [Status of Judges]
The law defines the terms ofappointment, promotion, transfer, discipline, and removal of judges.
Article 137 [Public Prosecution]
The public prosecution is a singlejuridical institution headed by the Minister of Justice. The law organizes its functions and powers.
Article 138 [Administrative Jurisdiction]
The Council of State exercisesadministrative jurisdiction. Thelaw defines the terms of appointment, promotion, discipline, and removed ofits judges.
Part 2 The Supreme Constitutional Court
Article 139 [Membership]
The Supreme Constitutional Court<ICL_5413>is composed of five members, of whom one will be the President, and all of whomare appointed by the President of the Republic by decree.
Article 140 [Incompatibility]
It is not permissible to combine themembership of the Supreme Constitutional Court with a ministerial post ormembership in the People's Assembly. Thelaw defines other functions which cannot be combined with court membership.
Article 141 [Term]
The term of membership of the SupremeConstitutional Court is 4 years subject to renewal.
Article 142 [Dismissal]
Members of the Supreme ConstitutionalCourt cannot be dismissed from court membership except in accordance with theprovisions of the law.
Article 143
Before assuming their duty, thePresident and members of the Supreme Constitutional Court take the followingoath before the President of the Republic and in the presence of the speaker ofthe People's Assembly:<BR>
"I swear by the Almighty to respect the country'sConstitution and laws and to carry out my duty with impartiality and loyalty."
Article 144 [Electoral Control]
The Supreme Constitutional Courtdetermines the validity of the special appeals regarding the election of themembers of the People's Assembly and submits to it a report on its findings.
Article 145 [Constitutional Review]
The Supreme Constitutional Court looksinto and decides on the constitutionality of laws in accordance with thefollowing:
1) Should the President of the Republicor a quarter of the People's Assembly members challenge the constitutionality ofa law before its promulgation, the promulgation of such law is suspended untilthe court makes a decision on it within 15 days from the date the appeal wasfiled with it. Should the law be ofan urgent nature, the Supreme Constitutional Court must make a decision within 7days.
2) Should a quarter of the People'sAssembly members object to the constitutionality of a legislative decree within15 days of the date of the People's Assembly session, the Supreme ConstitutionalCourt must decide on it within 15 days from the date the objection was filedwith it.
3) Should the Supreme ConstitutionalCourt decide that a law or a decree is contrary to the Constitution, whatever iscontrary to the text of the Constitution is considered null and void withretroactive effect and has no consequence.
Article 146 [No Review Of Referendum Laws]
The Supreme Constitutional Court has noright to look into laws which the President of the Republic submits to publicreferendum and are approved by the people.
Article 147 [Review of Drafts]
The Supreme Constitutional Court, at therequest of the President of the Republic, gives its opinion on theconstitutionality of bills and legislative decrees and the legality of draftdecrees.
Article 148 [Constitutional Court Statute]
The law determines the procedure ofhearing and adjudicating in matters coming under the jurisdiction of the SupremeConstitutional Court. It alsodefines the court staff, the qualifications of its members, and prescribes theirsalaries, immunities, privileges, and responsibilities.
Part 3 Amending the Constitution
Article 149 [Initiative, Majority]
(1) The President of the Republic as wellas a two‑thirds majority of the People's Assembly members have a right topropose amending the Constitution.
(2) The amendment proposal includes theprovisions to be amended and the reasons for it.
(3) Upon receipt of the proposal, thePeople's Assembly sets up a special committee to investigate it.
(4) The Assembly discusses the amendmentproposal, and if approved by a two‑thirds majority of its members, theamendment is considered final, provided it is approved by the President of theRepublic. It will then be includedin the body of the Constitution.
Chapter 4 General and Transitory Provisions
Article 150 [Preamble is Part of Constitution]
The preamble of this Constitution isconsidered an integral part of it.
Article 151 [First Amendments]
This Constitution may not be amendedbefore the lapse of 18 months from the date it comes into effect.
Article 152 [Temporary Election Control]
Until the Supreme Constitutional Court isformed, the general body of the Court of Cessation has the jurisdiction toexamine appeals regarding the validity of the election of the members of thePeople's Assembly after such appeals are referred to it by the President ofthe Assembly. The court submits tothe President of the Assembly a report of its findings.
Article 153 [Old Laws]
Legislation in effect and issued beforethe proclamation of this Constitution remains in effect until it is amended soas to be compatible with its provisions.
Article 154 [Term of President]
The term of the incumbent President ofthe Republic expires after 7 years of the Christian Era from the date of theannouncement of his election as President of the Syrian Arab Republic.
Article 155 [First Parliamentary Elections]
Elections for the first People's Assemblyare held under the Constitution within 90 days from the date it is declaredapproved by a public referendum.
Article 156 [Publication, Enforcement]
The President of the Republic publishesthis Constitution in the Official Gazette and it is considered in effect fromthe date of its approval by a public referendum
Fonte: http://www.uni-wuerzburg.de/law/info.html ICL - InternationalConstitutional Law