Russia · Legislation
Legislation and primary sources
Where to find the authoritative text of the law in Russia, and how to confirm it is still in force.
Sources of law, ranked
- Constitution
- Supreme law; since 2020 expressly prevails over contrary international decisions.
- Federal constitutional laws
- Adopted by three-quarters and two-thirds majorities; rank above ordinary federal law.
- Federal laws and codes
- Civil Code in four parts, Criminal Code 1996, Tax Code, Labour Code 2001.
- Presidential decrees (ukazy)
- Binding throughout the Federation where consistent with law.
- Regional legislation
- Enacted by the 80-plus federal subjects within their competence.
- Supreme Court plenum rulings
- Guidance clarifying the application of law for all courts.
The legislative process
Bills pass three readings in the State Duma, go to the Federation Council, and are signed by the President; a veto is overridden by two-thirds of each chamber. Since 2020 the President may refer an adopted bill to the Constitutional Court before signing.
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