A constitution is a set of fundamental principles and laws that establish the framework for governing a state or organization. In this case, were talking about the constitutions of sovereign nationsthose lofty documents that shape governments, define rights, and sometimes include provisions so odd or specific that they seem almost made up.
Many constitutions around the world include noble ideals worth copying. But now and then, countries manage to enshrine something so peculiaror so oddly specificthat it leaves outsiders scratching their heads. These are ten unusual, surprising, or just plain funny constitutional provisions you might not know about.
Related: 10 Ludicrous Laws from the Middle Ages That We Still Break Today
10 Switzerland: Mandatory Guinea Pig Pairs
Why Its Illegal to Own Just One Guinea Pig in Switzerland DocumentaryIn Switzerland, you cant legally own just one guinea pig. Thats not a punchlineits a matter of animal welfare law. Guinea pigs are social creatures that rely on companionship, and the Swiss take their happiness seriously enough to write it into legislation. Keeping one alone is considered animal cruelty due to emotional stress.
The rule, part of Switzerlands Animal Protection Ordinance, reflects broader legal efforts to treat animals as sentient beings with emotional needs. If one guinea pig dies, the owner is expected to replace it with another. In fact, some animal shelters offer rental guinea pigs to help temporarily partner up a lonely pet.
It may sound whimsical, but its part of a serious, progressive approach to animal rights. Switzerland doesnt just talk the talkthey legislate it, even when it comes to small, squeaky pets. [1]
9 Gambia: Presidential Candidates Must Be Of Sound Mind
LIVE: Gambia Presidential Candidates face off in big debateIn Gambias 1997 Constitution, Section 62 lays out the basic qualifications for presidential candidates: you must be a citizen, over the age of 30, with no serious criminal convictions& and you must be of sound mind. That last part stands outnot because its uncommon, but because its a bit vague.
While sound mind usually refers to mental fitness and legal competence, the phrase isnt precisely defined in the constitution. This leaves room for interpretationand, potentially, misuse. Could an offbeat social media post raise questions about a candidates mental fitness? It hasnt happened yet, but its a legal grey area worth noting in the age of online outrage.
In practice, medical evaluations would guide such decisions. But still, its a reminder that your presidential campaign might hinge not just on policy but on perception. [2]
8 Mexico: Ban on Noble Titles
On This Day 5 Feb 1917 The Constitution of Mexico Was RatifiedMexicos Constitution doesnt just frown on noble titlesit outright bans them. Article 12 declares that no titles of nobility may be granted within the country. Article 37 goes a step further: if a Mexican citizen accepts a noble title from a foreign state without government permission, they can lose their citizenship.
This hard stance reflects the countrys post-independence commitment to equality. After centuries of colonial rule, the framers of the constitution wanted to eliminate any lingering traces of aristocratic hierarchy.
So, if youre a Mexican citizen offered the title of Duke of Tacos by some obscure microstateyoud better politely decline or be ready to part with your passport. [3]
7 Netherlands: No Constitutional Judicial Review
Discover the Unique Dutch Constitution: A European AnomalyIn most democratic countries, if you think a law violates the constitution, you can take it to court. Not in the Netherlands. Article 120 of the Dutch Constitution prohibits courts from reviewing laws passed by Parliament for constitutionality. Even if a law seems to contradict the constitution, judges must let it stand.
This unusual system places enormous trust in the legislative processand avoids the kind of judicial activism seen in countries like the U.S. Its based on the principle that democratically elected lawmakers, not judges, should decide the boundaries of legality.
Critics argue this undermines minority protections. Defenders say it strengthens democracy. Either way, Dutch judges dont get the final say on constitutional questionsParliament does. [4]
6 Brazil: Constitutional Right to Leisure
The Brazilian Constitution in a Nutshell Video 2 Human RightsSome countries view leisure as a luxury. Brazil treats it like a right. Article 6 of the 1988 Brazilian Constitution lists leisurealongside housing, health, and educationas a fundamental social right of every citizen.
This doesnt mean the government hands out hammocks, but it does mean public policies must promote opportunities for rest, recreation, and cultural participation. Public parks, paid vacation laws, and protections against overwork are all part of fulfilling this obligation.
Brazils cultural identityfull of festivals, sports, and beach daysshines through in this legal provision. Its a rare example of a country that doesnt just tolerate downtimeit defends it. [5]
5 San Marino: Governance by Two Captains Regent
Intervention by Captains Regent of San Marino Giancarlo Venturini and Marco NicoliniSan Marino, the worlds oldest republic, has a head of state. Actually, it has two. Every six months, the country elects a pair of Captains Regent (Capitani Reggenti) to share the top job. This dual leadership system has been in place since 1243.
Chosen by the Grand and General Council, the Captains usually come from different political parties and serve for exactly half a yearfrom April 1 to October 1, or vice versa. They sign laws, host dignitaries, and represent the statebut always as a pair.
Its a Roman-inspired system designed to prevent power grabs, and it has worked for centuries. Two heads of state, no throne, and no lifetime appointmentsjust a remarkably functional, rotating partnership. [6]
4 Uganda: Relatives Cant Run Against Each Other
Uganda elections Ready for reform or conflict? Sarah Bireete on the Hard QuestionsIn Uganda, politics and family dont always mixat least not on the ballot. Electoral regulations based on the Local Governments Act discourage immediate family members from running against each other for the same office.
This isnt spelled out word-for-word in the Constitution, but it reflects its emphasis on transparency and fairness in public service. The concern? Family rivalries turning into political gamesor worse, coordinated campaigns to control local government seats.
By keeping elections free from family drama, the law aims to ensure that voters choose between genuinely independent candidates rather than feuding cousins who might reconcile over dinner. [7]
3 Bhutan: No Dual Citizenship Allowed
History Key Stage 3 : CitizensBhutan is famously protective of its national identityand that includes citizenship. Under Article 6 of the 2008 Constitution, dual citizenship is not allowed. If a Bhutanese citizen takes on another nationality, they lose their Bhutanese citizenship automatically. Similarly, naturalization applicants must renounce all other allegiances.
This policy reflects Bhutans small population, cultural cohesion, and desire to preserve sovereignty in a rapidly globalizing world. Its not about isolationismits about loyalty and unity.
While many countries embrace dual citizenship as a modern convenience, Bhutan still prefers a one-passport-per-person approach. You can be Bhutaneseor something else. But not both. [8]
