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Benin

Republic of Benin

Civil law (French tradition)Unitary presidential republicReviewed· 2026-08-03
Capital
Porto-Novo
Population
13,700,000
Languages
French, Fon
Currency
XOF

Benin · Legislation

Legislation and primary sources

Where to find the authoritative text of the law in Benin, and how to confirm it is still in force.

Sources of law, ranked

Constitution
Includes the African Charter by direct incorporation.
OHADA Uniform Acts
Directly applicable commercial law.
Treaties
Superior to statutes once ratified and published.
Laws and decrees
National Assembly statutes and presidential decrees.
Codes
Civil, penal, family (2004), labour and land codes.

The legislative process

Bills are examined in committee and voted in plenary by the National Assembly. The President promulgates; the Constitutional Court may be seised before or after promulgation, including by individuals.

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