Monegasque institutions: unique and stable

The second smallest nation in the world, after the Vatican, the Principality of Monaco has a unique institutional and political system. It is based on two principles which guarantee the stability and durability of the country’s institutions: the sovereignty of the Prince and a very close relationship with France.

It is the Sovereign Prince of Monaco, currently Prince Albert II, who holds executive power in Monaco and shares legislative authority with the National Council. The Prince also represents the Principality in its relations with foreign powers.

The second thing which makes Monegasque institutions unique is the strength and depth of their links with France. These are made clear from Article 1 of the Monegasque Constitution, which states that “the Principality of Monaco is a sovereign, independent nation under the general principles of international law and specific agreements with France.”

Having been able to withstand all of the upheavals that Europe has experienced, the Monegasque monarchy is now one of the oldest in the world, with the Grimaldi family having reigned since François Grimaldi, known as Malizia, conquered the Rocher in 1297. This has not prevented regular efforts to modernise the Principality’s institutions throughout history.