The National Council, the parliament of the Principality of Monaco, came into being with the 1911 Constitution, which gave Monegasques the ability to elect their representatives. Monaco, previously an absolute monarchy, then became a constitutional monarchy.
Initially comprising 21 members, the assembly gained more prerogatives over time, including the power to select its own President and Vice-President. The President of the National Council was originally appointed by the Prince. “The Constitution helped to lay the foundations for a modern, structured state. But the greatest benefit was the opening up of public debate,” explains constitutional expert Georges Grinda in his book The Institutions of Monaco.
“In 1911, the recognition of the rule of law by this Constitution was a pivotal moment for our country.”
Albert II at the centenary of the 1911 Constitution
In the 1962 Constitution, the National Council acquired legislative and budgetary responsibilities: it is now called upon to offer a view on bills submitted by the Government, and on the state budget. The assembly can also draft proposed legislation. Following the 2002 constitutional amendment, any proposal adopted by the National Council must receive a response from the Government within a maximum of six months. In addition, the National Council now has the right to amend legislation (excluding budget legislation).
At the international level, some treaties and international agreements, such as those that require amendments to existing legislation, must also be approved by the National Council before they can be ratified.
Members of the National Council are elected every five years through universal suffrage. Chaired by Thomas Brezzo since 2024, the Council has 24 members.
Created in 2021, the National Youth Council aims to “make things happen”. It is made up of 12 young Monegasques attending school from third to final year. The latter sit in the main chamber to present draft resolutions, ideas for legislative proposals or concrete suggestions for action. The 2024/2025 class will design a joint project around the theme “Making Monaco a more attractive Principality”.
