Tuvalu · Constitution
Constitution of Tuvalu
In force from independence on 1 October 1978, comprehensively revised in 1986 and again by the Constitution (Amendment) Act 2023, which took effect on 1 October 2023. The Constitution is unusual in stating expressly that Tuvaluan values and custom are to be weighed alongside individual rights: the preamble and Part II direct that the Bill of Rights be read in the light of Tuvaluan custom and community obligation. The 2023 revision added a declaration that Tuvalu's statehood and maritime zones continue notwithstanding climate change and loss of territory.
The constitutional text
In force from independence on 1 October 1978, comprehensively revised in 1986 and again by the Constitution (Amendment) Act 2023, which took effect on 1 October 2023. The Constitution is unusual in stating expressly that Tuvaluan values and custom are to be weighed alongside individual rights: the preamble and Part II direct that the Bill of Rights be read in the light of Tuvaluan custom and community obligation. The 2023 revision added a declaration that Tuvalu's statehood and maritime zones continue notwithstanding climate change and loss of territory.
Separation of powers
Unitary with strong island-level authority. Each of the eight inhabited islands has a Falekaupule, the traditional assembly of elders, given statutory power by the Falekaupule Act 1997 to make bylaws and administer island funds. In practice the Falekaupule is the level of government most Tuvaluans deal with.
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