Legislative Suggestion: Monarchy's Constitutional Restoration — Support Or Oppose?

The suggestion to restore constitutional monarchy has been a topic of discussion and debate for centuries, with proponents arguing that it brings tourism and provides 'soft power' in terms of geopolitical influence. The oldest constitutional monarchy dating back to ancient times was that of the Hittites, where the king shared authority with an assembly. In modern times, constitutional monarchies range from countries like Liechtenstein and Monaco, where the constitution grants substantial powers to the sovereign, to countries like the United Kingdom and other Commonwealth realms, where the monarch's powers are more limited. In a constitutional monarchy, the monarch acts as a ceremonial head of state, with duties such as dissolving parliament and granting royal assent to legislation. While some see the monarchy as a unifying force, others argue that it is a distraction from more important issues and that a republic with an elected head of state is a more democratic form of government.

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Advantages of a constitutional monarchy

A constitutional monarchy has several advantages over other forms of governance.

Firstly, a constitutional monarchy provides a figurehead who represents the entire nation, not just a political party. This is important as it means the monarch can unite the people, especially during challenging times. For example, during World War II, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth exemplified this role, embodying the values of state membership and providing a point of reference and reassurance for Londoners enduring the Blitz.

Secondly, constitutional monarchies can foster social trust and stability. Research by Petra Schleiter and Edward Morgan-Jones suggests that these governments are more likely to consult their people through early elections, leading to higher levels of trust in leaders and associated benefits such as lower crime rates and reduced corruption.

Additionally, constitutional monarchies offer the benefit of soft diplomacy. Royals can promote national interests and highlight the need for debate on certain topics through their charitable works, all while remaining above the political fray. For instance, Prince Charles's longstanding environmental advocacy and Princess Diana's work on AIDS helped shift international opinion, leading to a ban on landmines.

Another advantage is the potential for long-term stability and continuity in leadership. The process of royal succession, with extensive preparation for the role, can result in a well-trained and supported head of state. This contrasts with other systems where leaders may be instantly elevated to the highest office without the same level of guidance and experience.

Finally, a constitutional monarchy can serve as a transitional mode of leadership, providing a prototypical group member who embodies the values of the state. This role can be particularly important for nations in periods of change or uncertainty, offering a shared point of identification for citizens with differing views.

Historical examples of constitutional monarchies

The United Kingdom is often cited as the best example of a constitutional monarchy. The British monarch, Queen Elizabeth II, became the head of state in 1952, and the government technically functions in her name. However, she has no actual authority over the government, and the prime minister governs the country. The monarch serves as a symbol of national unity, pride, and tradition, and performs ceremonial duties.

Another example of a constitutional monarchy is Spain, which, much like the United Kingdom, evolved over several centuries into a powerful position. At its peak in the 16th and 17th centuries, the power of the Spanish monarch began to decline throughout the 18th and 19th centuries as Spain became economically and politically weaker than Britain and France.

The Netherlands is another example of a constitutional monarchy, with Queen Beatrix playing a significant role in shaping Dutch policy. Under the constitution, she is allowed to serve as the chair of the Council of State, the country's highest government advisory board.

Other historical examples of constitutional monarchies include the Anglo-Corsican Kingdom (1794-1796), the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth (1569-1795), and the Empire of Brazil under Pedro I (1822-1889). Thailand, Belgium, Norway, Sweden, and Denmark are also constitutional monarchies.

The role of the monarch in a constitutional monarchy

The role of a monarch in a constitutional monarchy is varied and differs depending on the country. In some constitutional monarchies, like Liechtenstein, Monaco, Morocco, Jordan, Kuwait, and Bahrain, the constitution grants substantial discretionary powers to the sovereign. In other countries, like the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Spain, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Japan, the monarch has significantly less discretion in the exercise of their authority.

In the United Kingdom, for example, the monarch has functions as both head of state and head of the nation. While the monarch is head of state, the ability to make and pass legislation resides with an elected parliament. The monarch undertakes constitutional and representational duties, such as appointing the prime minister and other ministers, opening new sessions of parliament, and giving royal assent to bills passed by parliament. The monarch also chairs monthly meetings of the Privy Council, receives ambassadors, and makes other appointments like senior judges, all on the advice of the government.

Constitutional monarchies like the United Kingdom, where the monarch has a mostly ceremonial role, still retain significant authorities or political influence through certain reserve powers. For example, the monarch of the United Kingdom can theoretically exercise an absolute veto over legislation by withholding royal assent. This is known as the power of the "interventionist monarch".

In addition to these formal powers, a constitutional monarch acts as a visible symbol of national unity and pride, giving a sense of stability and continuity. This role is often fulfilled through speeches, giving honours to recognise public and voluntary service, and through visits to local organisations, schools, hospitals, and charities.

The oldest constitutional monarchy, dating back to ancient times, was that of the Hittites, where the king had to share his authority with an assembly called the Panku, equivalent to a modern-day legislature.

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The legislative process for restoring a constitutional monarchy

Identify the Country's Historical Context

Before initiating any legislative process, it is crucial to understand the country's historical context regarding monarchy. This includes studying the country's previous monarchical system, the reasons for its abolition (if applicable), and the current political climate. For example, countries like the United Kingdom, Spain, and Japan have existing constitutional monarchies with varying levels of monarchical power. In contrast, countries like Greece, Spain, and Brazil have had periods of republican government interspersed with attempts to restore monarchy. Understanding the historical context will inform the strategy for restoration.

Build Public Support

Restoring a constitutional monarchy will likely require significant public support. Monarchists can play a crucial role in advocating for the benefits of a constitutional monarchy, such as having a non-partisan ceremonial head of state who can unite the nation. They can also refute arguments against monarchy and highlight the unique historical and cultural identity associated with the monarchy. Building a strong base of public support is essential to exerting pressure on lawmakers to consider legislative changes.

Propose Legislative Changes

The specific legislative process will depend on the country's political system. In some countries, a referendum may be held to allow the general public to vote directly on the matter. For example, Australia held a referendum in 1999 to decide on replacing the constitutional monarchy with a republic, which was ultimately rejected by voters. In other cases, legislative bodies, such as the parliament or congress, may need to propose and pass amendments to the constitution to restore the monarchy. This process typically involves drafting and presenting a proposal, holding debates, and voting on the proposed changes.

Establish the Role and Powers of the Monarchy

If the legislative changes are successful, the new constitutional monarchy's role and powers must be established. This includes defining the monarch's formal powers, such as dissolving parliament or giving royal assent to legislation, and ensuring they are exercised in accordance with the constitution. Additionally, any reserve powers or political influence retained by the monarchy should be clarified to maintain a balanced distribution of authority.

Select or Install the Monarch

The process of selecting or installing the monarch will depend on the country's historical context and any existing laws or traditions. In some cases, there may be a clear line of succession to determine the next monarch. In other instances, a previously exiled royal family may be reinstated, or a new monarch may be elected, as was the case in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

It is important to note that the legislative process for restoring a constitutional monarchy is complex and highly dependent on the specific country and its political landscape. The above steps provide a general framework, but each country's journey towards restoration may involve unique challenges and opportunities.

Public opinion on restoring constitutional monarchy

United Kingdom

In the United Kingdom, the monarchy is still widely popular, with 65% of respondents in a 1983 British Social Attitudes (BSA) survey stating that it was "very important" for Britain to continue having a monarchy. However, the popularity of the monarchy has fluctuated over time. For example, in 1994, only 32% of respondents in a BSA survey considered the retention of the monarchy as "very important". Similarly, in 2012, the year of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee, support for a monarchy averaged at 79% across three Ipsos polls, while support for a republic slipped to 15%.

Thailand

In Thailand, the monarchy is generally revered, and the Thai monarch retains substantial discretionary powers under the constitution. The social influence of the Thai monarchy arises from this reverence and the socioeconomic improvement efforts undertaken by the royal family.

France

Some people have argued for the restoration of the Bourbons, or the French constitutional monarchy, as a great victory for conservatives.

China

In the early 20th century, there were debates in China about transitioning from a republic to a constitutional monarchy. However, it was acknowledged that such a change would require the development of a form of constitutional government to be beneficial.

United States

Some commentators have argued that the United States could benefit from a constitutional monarchy, citing potential advantages such as increased social trust, more regular elections, and economic growth associated with hereditary succession. However, this suggestion may be met with skepticism, as the United States is considered an advanced democracy.

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