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Basic Laws and ordinary laws
Israel has no single constitution. Its Basic Laws are chapters written over time, with a higher status than ordinary laws.
In 1950 the Knesset decided to write a constitution in chapters called Basic Laws, rather than all at once.
All steps in text
- In 1950 the Knesset decided to write a constitution in chapters called Basic Laws, rather than all at once.
- Each Basic Law deals with one subject: the Knesset, the government, the judiciary, human dignity and liberty, and others.
- Some provisions of the Basic Laws are entrenched: changing them requires a majority of 61 Knesset members, rather than just a majority of those present.
- Since the 1995 Mizrahi Bank ruling, the Court recognizes constitutional status for Basic Laws. Conflicting ordinary laws may be invalidated.