The planet’s second-smallest nation by area (after Vatican City), has the world’s shortest constitution. Adopted in 1962 during the reign of Prince Rainier III, the governing document of Monaco currently clocks in at 3,814 words, according to the Comparative Constitutions Project (CCP). The diminutive principality, which today is famous as a playground for the rich, was granted its first constitution in 1911 by Prince Alnert I.

It was extensively revised by Prince Rainier III on December 17, 1962. By word count, the governing document Monaco has approximately 3,800 words. It is the fundamental law of the country. it outlines the arms of government, administrative offices, and councils that share the legislative and advisory powers with the prince.

According to the constitution, the prince holds the highest executive powers while the Minister of State is the head of government. The line of succession to the Monegasque throne is also clearly outlined in the constitution. The prince also shares powers with the unicameral parliament (National Council). Although the National Council is independent of the prince, it requires the signature of the prince in any of its proposed laws.

According to the 1962 constitution, the judicial powers are also vested on the prince who can delegate the judicial procedures to the courts. Justice is often dispensed in the name of the prince. The Constitution of Monaco is written in French but translated into English.

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