Which country has the greatest Constitution in the world?

Asked by: Alexandrine Lowe  |  Last update: February 13, 2026
Score: 4.8/5 (58 votes)

There's no single "greatest" constitution, as "best" depends on criteria like length, age, or rights protected; however, India has the world's longest written constitution, the U.S. has the oldest codified one, and South Africa's is praised for extensive rights and reconciliation. Different countries excel in different aspects, with India's being detailed, the U.S.'s enduring, and South Africa's focusing on equality and inclusivity.

Which country has the greatest constitution?

India has the largest written constitution in the world, while the US Constitution is one of the oldest. Federal Structure: Both countries practice federalism, sharing powers between central and state authorities.

Which is the no. 1 constitution in the world?

The Indian constitution is the world's longest for a sovereign nation. At its enactment, it had 395 articles in 22 parts and 8 schedules. At about 145,000 words, it is the second-longest active constitution—after the Constitution of Alabama—in the world.

Which country has the biggest written constitution in the world?

Answer. The Indian Constitution is the world's longest written constitution, with 146,385 words in its English-language version, whereas the Monaco Constitution is the world's shortest written constitution, with 3,814 words. Answer.

Which country has the best legal system in the world?

The top 35 countries (out of 142 listed countries) for the rule of law according to WJP in 2024 are:

  • Denmark.
  • Norway.
  • Finland.
  • Sweden.
  • Germany.
  • New Zealand.
  • Luxembourg.
  • Netherlands.

The Spread of Democracy (1900-2021)

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What country is ranked #1 in freedom?

According to the latest Human Freedom Index 2025, Switzerland ranks as the #1 freest country, praised for strong rule of law, personal autonomy, and economic freedom, followed closely by Denmark, New Zealand, Ireland, and Luxembourg in the top five for overall human freedom.
 

What is the most advanced constitution in the world?

South Africa's Constitution is one of the most internationally acclaimed constitutions in the world.

Which country has the longest lasting constitution?

Written in 1787, ratified in 1788, and in operation since 1789, the United States Constitution is the world's longest surviving written charter of government.

Which country has the lowest written constitution?

Changes to constitutions frequently require consensus or supermajority. The Constitution of India is the longest written constitution of any country in the world, with 146,385 words in its English-language version, while the Constitution of Monaco is the shortest written constitution with 3,814 words.

Which is the toughest constitution in the world?

Far from being a badge of honor, the distinction of topping the global charts on constitutional rigidity is cause for alarm. Ancient and virtually impervious to amendment, the United States Constitution has withstood all modern efforts to renovate its outdated architecture on elections, federalism, rights, and beyond.

Can Japan declare war?

Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution contains “No war” clause. It came into effect on May 3, 1947, immediately after World War II. The text of the article of the Japanese Government formally renounce war as a right of sovereignty and the refuses to settle disputes using military force.

Which is the oldest constitution of the world?

8 oldest constitutions in the world

  • 1/9. The pillars of governance. ...
  • 2/9. Constitution of San Marino. ...
  • 3/9. United States Constitution. ...
  • 4/9. Constitution of the Republic of Poland. ...
  • 5/9. Constitution of Norway. ...
  • 6/9. Constitution of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. ...
  • 7/9. Constitution of Belgium. ...
  • 8/9. Constitution of Luxembourg.

What is considered the best country in the world?

U.S. News Best Countries. The overall ranking of Best Countries measure global performance on a variety of metrics. Switzerland is the best country in the world for 2024.

Which country has the largest return Constitution?

China. China's construction industry is the largest in the world.

Which countries have the best constitutions?

  • United Kingdom. #1 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • Germany. #2 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • Switzerland. #3 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • United States. #4 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • Sweden. #5 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • Canada. #6 in Well-developed legal framework. ...
  • Denmark. ...
  • Australia.

What is the oldest active government in the world?

San Marino claims to be the oldest constitutional republic in the world, founded on 3 September 301, by Marinus, a Christian stonemason fleeing the religious persecution of Roman Emperor Diocletian. San Marino's constitution, dating back to 1600, is the world's oldest written constitution still in effect.

Which country has the largest return constitution in the world?

The Indian Constitution contains approximately 145,000 words, making it significantly longer than most other constitutions around the world. To put this into perspective, the US Constitution has only about 4,400 words, while the UK doesn't even have a single written constitutional document.

What country is #1 in freedom?

According to the latest Human Freedom Index 2025, Switzerland ranks as the #1 freest country, praised for strong rule of law, personal autonomy, and economic freedom, followed closely by Denmark, New Zealand, Ireland, and Luxembourg in the top five for overall human freedom.
 

Which country has the most difficult Constitution to amend?

Ancient and virtually impervious to amendment, the United States Constitution has withstood all modern efforts to renovate its outdated architecture on elections, federalism, rights, and beyond.

What is the finest Constitution of the world?

The Indian Constitution has also been hailed as one of the world's best Constitution because in 62 years of its adoption, it had been amended only 94 times.

Who is the most powerful law in the world?

The 7 Most Famous Laws in the World:

  • Murphy Law.
  • Kidlin Law.
  • Gilbert Law.
  • Wilson Law.
  • Falkland Law.
  • Parkinson's Law.
  • Pareto Principle (80/20 Rule)

Which country has the best justice system in the world?

Rule of law - Country rankings

The average for 2023 based on 193 countries was -0.04 points. The highest value was in Finland: 1.97 points and the lowest value was in Somalia: -2.21 points. The indicator is available from 1996 to 2023.

Which country has the most strict law?

Saudi Arabia has strict social rules related to gender segregation, dress codes, and religious practices (though many have relaxed in recent years).