The Comparative Constitutions Project (CCP) is directed by Zachary
Elkins (University of Texas, Department of Government) and Tom Ginsburg (University of Chicago, Law School), in cooperation with the Cline Center for Democracy at the University of Illinois. The project is supported by the National Science Foundation (SES 0648288).

The intent of the project is to investigate the sources and consequences of constitutional choices. Towards this end, the investigators are collecting data on the formal characteristics of written constitutions, both current and historical, for most independent states since 1789. The data will ultimately be available in its entirety to the public.

The project also sponsors a website called constitutionmaking.org to inform constitutional designers. The site features reports on the prevalence of various constitutional provisions as well as sample clauses, and a forum reporting on recent news from the world of constitutional design. In addition, the site has a searchable database of selected constitutional texts.

Survey Instrument (.pdf)
CCP in the News
Board of Advisors
Courses
Constitutionmaking.org
The Endurance of National Constitutions Online Appendix

11.22.2010: Madagascar - New Constitution

Voters in Madagascar overwhelmingly approved a referendum for a new constitution. The new constitution will allow President Rajoelina to run for another term in 2011 (Jurist 2010).

10.31.2010: Niger - New Constitution

90% of voters cast ballots in favor of Niger's new constitution. Although the junta leadership still needs to sign the constitution to officially promulgate the document, it appears that Niger will be returned to civilian rule within a year of last February's coup (JUrist 2010).

9.12.2010: Turkey - Constitutional Amendment

Turkish voters approve constitutional amendments that will limit the power of the judiciary and provide the government more control over both the military and the judiciary (Jurist 2010).