Kiribati · Legislation
Legislation and primary sources
Where to find the authoritative text of the law in Kiribati, and how to confirm it is still in force.
Sources of law, ranked
- The Constitution
- Supreme law; Chapter II rights and express protection of land rights.
- Acts of the Maneaba ni Maungatabu
- Unicameral legislature of 45 members.
- Customary law
- Applied under the Laws of Kiribati Act 1989, especially to land, fishing rights and adoption.
- Received English law
- Pre-independence English common law, equity and statutes of general application remain in force so far as they are not inconsistent with the Constitution, local statute or custom.
The legislative process
Bills receive three readings in the single chamber and are assented to by the Beretitenti. Constitutional amendments require a two-thirds majority of all members, and amendments affecting Banaban land rights or the Banaban representative additionally require the support of the Rabi Council of Leaders — a rare example of a minority community holding a constitutional veto.
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