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CONSTITUTION

The government of Ukraine recently adopted a new constitution. The process which would end in ratification by a national referendum was initiated with a draft prepared in 1992. Adoption of the constitution was delayed by various disagreements, especially those concerning the division of power and the role of the President in any constitutional order.

GOVERNMENT

Executive power is vested in the President and the Prime Minister, while legislative power is the prerogative of the Verkhovna Rada. The President is elected by direct, popular vote for a mandate of five years. The President appoints the Prime Minister and the members of the Council of Minister, but all appointments must be approved by the Verkhovna Rada.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT

Ukraine is divided into 24 oblasts (provinces), one autonomous republic (Crimea), 479 rayons (divisions), and 415 cities. The Republic of Crimea has been granted special status, with considerable autonomy in its internal affairs.

EXECUTIVE

Executive power is vested in a directly elected President. A Council of Ministers (Cabinet) is headed by a Prime Minister, who is appointed by the President.

LEGISLATURE

The highest legislative branch in Ukraine is the Verkhovna Rada (Supreme Council). It is a unicameral body which has 450 directly elected members. Elections have been held in March, April 1993, and March 1998.

JUDICIAL SYSTEM

Under the Soviet system, the Ukrainian judiciary was headed by a Supreme Court. There is no information available yet on proposed changes to the judicial system following the breakup of the Soviet Union and the restructuring of Ukrainian institutions.

ELECTION QUALIFICATIONS

All citizens 18 years of age and older are eligible to vote.