Describe the relationship between citizens and governments as stated in the

constitution.

Sub-objectives

Relationship between citizen and government as stated in the constitution.

a. Definition of the following terms and concepts: constitution, democracy,

authoritarian.

b. Human rights, freedoms and responsibilities

c. Role of the Ombudsman.

Constitution

A constitution is a set of fundamental principles according to which a country is

governed and which includes laws and guidelines that ensure that the constitution
is upheld.

The constitution is the supreme law of Commonwealth Caribbean countries and is

enforced by the courts. All other laws, rules and regulations have to be consistent
with the constitution. If a proposed law is proved to violate the constitution, it is
unconditional and will be void (invalid).

A constitution is a contract between the citizens and their government. It outlines:

· The structure of government

· the powers of the executive, legislature and judiciary

· the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of citizens

· the method of choosing a government

· the role of the civil service

Democratic and authoritarian governments

Democratic government

The system of government in Commonwealth Caribbean countries is democratic.

In a democracy, citizens are allowed to put themselves forward as parliamentary
candidates and to freely vote for their representatives from at least two competing
parties. Citizens can also criticize the government and challenge its decisions, as
well as being involved in consultations.

Authoritarian government

One in which the decisions are made by an individual person or by a small group
within government. Citizens do not have an opportunity to participate in
government decision-making. Decisions can be made without the knowledge or
consent of the citizens (e.g Cuba).

Human rights and freedom

The constitutions of Commonwealth Caribbean countries contain a bill of rights

that provides the legal protection for the rights and freedoms of individual citizens
such as the right to vote, security, education, work etc and freedom of movement,
religion etc. The bill of rights protects citizens from discrimination on any grounds
including race, origin, religion, political opinions, color or creed.

Citizens’ responsibilities

Citizens help to promote good governance by: obeying laws, paying taxes,
protecting public property, serving a jury when requested, protecting the
environment and participating in elections.

The role of the ombudsman

An ombudsman is an official who is appointed to investigate complaints made by

citizens against public authorities and to ensure that citizens’ interests are not
abused. The ombudsman will investigate any allegations of poor performance in
loss of documentation, neglect or discrimination against any government officials
or departments. The ombudsman’s findings are reported to parliament.