Puerto Rico Constitution Article I - The Commonwealth

Puerto Rico Constitution – Article I: The Commonwealth

Summary:

Article I – The Commonwealth establishes the political status, foundational principles, and sovereignty of Puerto Rico as a self-governing territory in free association with the United States.

🔑 Key Sections and Provisions:

Section 1 – Political Status:

Puerto Rico is organized as a Commonwealth.

It exercises self-government under its constitution and within the framework of its relationship with the United States.

Section 2 – Sovereignty of the People:

All political power emanates from the people.

The democratic form of government is established and protected.

Section 3 – Government by Consent:

Government in Puerto Rico operates with the consent of the governed, and public officials are accountable to the people.

Section 4 – Rule of Law and Justice:

The government must respect individual rights and uphold the rule of law and justice.

Section 5 – Republican Form of Government:

Guarantees a republican form of government, meaning power rests with the people through elected representatives.

Section 6 – Allegiance to the U.S. Constitution:

While Puerto Rico has autonomy in local matters, it recognizes the supremacy of the U.S. Constitution, federal laws, and treaties.

🧭 Purpose and Context:

Article I serves as the foundation of Puerto Rico’s constitutional identity.

It reflects the island's dual nature: autonomy in local governance while remaining under U.S. sovereignty.

It affirms democratic values, self-determination, and commitment to civil rights.

 

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