Marshall Islands

The three branches

Head of state and government — President of the Republic

Elected by the Nitijela from among its members and responsible to it.

Executive — Cabinet

Appointed by the President from the Nitijela.

Legislative — Nitijela

Unicameral, 33 senators elected from 24 electoral districts.

Traditional — Council of Iroij

Twelve traditional leaders; reviews and advises on legislation touching custom and land.

Judicial — Supreme Court, High Court and Traditional Rights Court

Judges are appointed by the Cabinet on the recommendation of the Judicial Service Commission.

How legislation is made

Bills pass the Nitijela and are signed by the President. Legislation affecting customary law, land tenure or traditional practice must be referred to the Council of Iroij, which may return its opinion to the chamber; the Nitijela may proceed regardless, but the referral is a required step. Constitutional amendments require either a two-thirds vote of the Nitijela followed by a referendum, or a constitutional convention.

Enforcement institutions

Marshall Islands Police Department

National police; atoll policing is supplemented by local officers.

Office of the Attorney-General

Legal adviser to government, drafter and prosecutor.

Public Defender's Office

Constitutional right to counsel in criminal cases is delivered through this office.

Environmental Protection Authority

Permitting and enforcement, including for the specific legacy of nuclear contamination.