WHAT IS A BILL OF RIGHTS

A Bill of Rights is the highest legal shield a nation can offer its people. It exists not to grant rights — but to recognise and protect them. These rights are permanent, universal, and non-political. No government may remove them without overwhelming public approval.

This Bill of Rights defines

THE FREEDOMS OF EVERY CITIZEN

THE LIMITS ON GOVERNMENT POWER

THE DIGNITY AND PROTECTIONS THAT CANNOT BE DENIED

These rights are enshrined in the Constitution, requiring a supermajority in Parliament, the approval of the Gate Keeper, Crown Assent, and a public referendum to be altered.

Amendments I–XXXII

CONTENTS OVERVIEW

Contents Overview

Fundamental Freedoms

Explainer

Protects essential civil liberties: freedom of speech, religion, press, peaceful assembly, and petitioning the government. These rights form the core of a democratic society and can only be limited to protect public safety, order, or the rights of others.

 

Legal Text

Parliament shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances. These freedoms shall be subject only to such reasonable limitations as are necessary to protect public order, national security, public health or morals, or the fundamental rights and reputations of others.

Right to Bear Arms (Sporting Only)

Explainer

Grants the right to possess firearms solely for legitimate sporting and hunting purposes. Private militias, handguns, and firearms for personal defence are not allowed.

 

Legal Text

Citizens have the right to possess firearms exclusively for legitimate sporting and hunting purposes, subject to strict licensing and regulation. The private ownership of handguns is prohibited, and no citizen may form or participate in a private militia. Parliament shall establish rigorous background checks, safe-storage requirements, and periodic reviews for all firearm licences to safeguard public security. Nothing in this Amendment shall be construed to permit the carrying of firearms for personal defence or any purpose outside licensed sporting and hunting activities.

Right to End One’s Life When Terminally Ill

Explainer

Allows mentally competent adults with terminal or degenerative illnesses to choose medically assisted death, subject to strict safeguards, including diagnosis confirmation and voluntary consent.

 

Legal Text

No law shall prohibit a mentally competent adult, diagnosed with a terminal or degenerative illness that is likely to result in severe suffering or profound loss of mental capacity, from choosing to end their own life—at a time of their choosing, even before the onset of unbearable pain—through medical assistance or other lawful means, subject to strict safeguards established by Parliament. This provision extends to individuals with dementia or similar brain-wasting conditions but does not apply to persons seeking to end their life solely on grounds of mental health disorders. Safeguards shall include:

1. Voluntary and informed decision-making.

2. Medical confirmation by at least two independent practitioners.

3. Observance of Parliament-approved protocols.

Nothing in this clause compels healthcare professionals to participate against their conscience, provided that adequate referral or alternative arrangements are made to honour the individual’s choice.

Protection from Unreasonable Search & Seizure

Explainer

Protects individuals from arbitrary or unjustified searches of their persons, homes, or possessions. Searches must be based on probable cause and authorised by a specific warrant.

 

Legal Text

The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated. No warrants shall issue but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched and the persons or things to be seized. Evidence obtained in violation of this Amendment shall be subject to exclusion as provided by law.

Rights in Criminal Proceedings

Explainer

Ensures fair treatment in criminal cases. Includes protection from double jeopardy, forced self-incrimination, and loss of liberty or property without due process.

 

Legal Text

No person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise infamous crime without a lawful charge or indictment, except in cases arising in the armed forces or militia in active service during war or public danger. No person shall be subject for the same offence to be twice put in jeopardy of life or limb. No person shall be compelled in any criminal case to be a witness against himself or herself. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process of law, nor shall private property be taken for public use without just compensation.

Rights of Accused in Criminal Trials

Explainer

Guarantees the right to a fair trial, legal counsel, and the presumption of innocence. Defendants must be informed of charges, confront witnesses, and be described as “accused,” not “criminal,” before conviction.

 

Legal Text

In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall enjoy the right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury in the district wherein the crime has been committed, which district shall have been previously ascertained by law. The accused shall be informed of the nature and cause of the accusation, be confronted with the witnesses against him, her or them, have compulsory process for obtaining witnesses in their favour, and have the assistance of counsel for defence. No person shall be described by public authorities as a “criminal” prior to a lawful conviction; “accused” or other neutral terminology must be used to uphold the presumption of innocence.

Civil Trials by Jury

Explainer

Protects the right to request a jury trial in civil cases where the amount in dispute exceeds a threshold set by Parliament. Ensures that jury findings are respected.

 

Legal Text

In suits at common law, where the value in controversy exceeds an amount prescribed by Parliament, the right of trial by jury shall be preserved if requested by a party, and no fact tried by a jury shall be otherwise re-examined in any court of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION than according to the rules of common law or statute.

Protections Against Excessive Punishments

Explainer

Prevents the government from imposing excessive bail, fines, or cruel and degrading punishments. All penalties must be proportionate to the crime.

 

Legal Text

Excessive bail shall not be required, nor excessive fines imposed, nor cruel and unusual punishments inflicted. All punishments shall be proportionate to the offence, and no inhuman or degrading treatment shall be tolerated.

Unenumerated Rights

Explainer

Clarifies that the rights listed in the Bill of Rights do not exclude other fundamental freedoms held by the people. Courts may recognise new rights grounded in dignity or tradition.

 

Legal Text

The enumeration of certain rights in this Bill of Rights shall not be construed to deny or disparage others retained by the people. Nothing herein shall limit the recognition of additional fundamental rights grounded in liberty, dignity, or established legal tradition.

Reserved Powers

Explainer

States that powers not explicitly given to the national government are reserved to the Realms or the people. Courts must favour interpretations that protect local autonomy and personal liberty.

 

Legal Text

The powers not delegated to the national Government of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the Realms, are reserved to the Realms respectively, or to the people. In case of doubt, the courts shall favour the interpretation that preserves the autonomy of the Realms or the liberty of individuals, consistent with the needs of national unity.

Abolition of Slavery and Involuntary Servitude

Explainer

Outlaws slavery and forced labour in all forms, with a single exception for lawful punishment following conviction for a crime. Protects human dignity at the most fundamental level.

 

Legal Text

Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude shall exist within The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION or any place subject to its jurisdiction, except as lawful punishment for a person duly convicted of a crime. Parliament shall have power to enforce this Article by appropriate legislation.

Citizenship, Equal Protection, and Due Process

Explainer

Guarantees every citizen equal treatment under the law and the right to life, liberty, and property without due process. No Realm may create laws that violate these principles.

 

Legal Text

Guarantees every citizen equal treatment under the law and the right to life, liberty, and property without due process. No Realm may create laws that violate these principles.

Universal Suffrage

Explainer

Protects the right to vote for all adult citizens, regardless of race, sex, religion, or other inherent status. Voting qualifications must be fair and not undermine the equal right to participate.

 

Legal Text

The right of citizens of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION to vote shall not be denied or abridged on account of race, colour, sex, sexual preference, orientation, or social origin, religion, language, or any other inherent status. Parliament may establish minimum age requirements and other lawful qualifications (e.g. citizenship, residency, or lawful disqualification for serious crimes), provided they do not undermine the universal and equal character of the franchise.

Right to Work, Fair Conditions, and Social Welfare

Explainer

Recognises the right to gainful employment, just working conditions, and unionisation. Also ensures that in times of hardship, citizens are entitled to social welfare that maintains human dignity.

 

Legal Text

All citizens have the right to pursue gainful employment of their choosing, to enjoy just and favourable conditions of work, and to form and join trade unions to protect their interests. Parliament and the Realms shall strive to ensure policies that promote fair wages, safe working conditions, and non-discriminatory opportunities for employment. In times of genuine need—such as disability, unemployment, or other hardship—every citizen has the right to access social welfare measures necessary for a dignified standard of living.

Right to Education

Explainer

Grants free access to primary and secondary education. Higher education must be accessible based on merit, and the education system must foster civic duty, human rights, and personal development.

 

Legal Text

Every citizen has the right to free primary and secondary education, which shall be compulsory to the extent prescribed by law. Access to further or higher education shall be made available to all on the basis of merit and ability, with Parliament empowered to legislate financial or practical support where necessary. Education shall aim to develop the individual’s abilities, character, and sense of civic responsibility, and to foster respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

Right to Health and a Clean Environment

Explainer

Declares health and environmental wellbeing as fundamental rights. Citizens must have access to healthcare and live in a safe, unpolluted environment, with Parliament required to safeguard both.

 

Legal Text

1. Right to Health: Every person has the right to access essential healthcare services, and Parliament shall adopt measures to achieve progressively the full realisation of this right, subject to resource availability.

2. Clean Environment: Every person has the right to an environment that is not harmful to their health or well-being, including clean air, water, and the conservation of natural resources for present and future generations. Parliament and the Realms shall enact legislation to protect and improve the environment, control pollution, and ensure sustainable development.

Right to Education

Explainer

Protects individuals from government intrusion into private life, family, home, and personal data. Privacy may only be limited when necessary in a democratic society and by lawful means.

 

Legal Text

Every person has the right to respect for their private and family life, home, and correspondence. No public authority shall interfere with this right except in accordance with law and only as necessary in a democratic society for reasons of national security, public safety, the protection of health or morals, or the protection of the rights and freedoms of others. Any gathering, storage, or use of personal data shall be strictly regulated by law, ensuring safeguards against abuse.

Freedom of Movement

Explainer

Citizens may travel freely within the country, choose where to live, and enter or leave the nation unless subject to lawful restrictions for security, public health, or legal reasons.

 

Legal Text

Citizens of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION shall have the right to move freely within the national territory and to choose their place of residence, subject to reasonable legal restrictions. They shall also have the right to leave the country and to return, save in lawful circumstances related to national security, public health, or the protection of others’ rights.

Rights of the Child

Explainer

Children under the age of sixteen have the right to protection, care, and a safe childhood free from abuse and exploitation. All decisions involving a child must prioritise their best interests.

 

Legal Text

Every child, defined as a person under the age of sixteen, has the right to protection, care, and a childhood free from exploitation or abuse. Public authorities shall give primary consideration to the best interests of the child in all actions concerning them, including decisions on custody, care, education, and any judicial or administrative proceedings.

Prohibition on Retroactive Criminal Laws

Explainer

Prevents prosecution for actions that were not crimes when committed. Also forbids imposing harsher penalties retroactively or targeting individuals with special laws (bills of attainder).

 

Legal Text

No person shall be found guilty of a criminal offence for an act or omission that did not constitute a criminal offence at the time it was committed. Nor shall a heavier penalty be imposed than that which was applicable at the time of the offence. Laws and punishments shall operate prospectively, and no Bill of Attainder shall be passed.

No Extradition for Non-Recognised Offences

Explainer

Protects citizens from being extradited to a foreign country for actions that are not crimes under the laws of the Realm where they reside. Allows exceptions only for crimes recognised internationally.

 

Legal Text

Protects citizens from being extradited to a foreign country for actions that are not crimes under the laws of the Realm where they reside. Allows exceptions only for crimes recognised internationally.

Civil Recourse and Enforcement

Explainer

Gives individuals the right to seek justice if their constitutional rights are violated. Courts and oversight bodies may issue remedies including compensation, injunctions, or public orders.

 

Legal Text

Any individual who believes their rights under this Bill of Rights have been violated may seek recourse in the courts or through the Citizens Protectorate Board (CPB). Courts shall have the power to grant appropriate relief, including injunctions, compensation, or other remedies necessary to secure the full enjoyment of these rights.

Note: Parliament and the courts shall interpret and apply these Amendments in a manner that best upholds human dignity and the democratic values of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION. Future Amendments may be added according to the constitutional process.

Marriage Equality, LGBT+ Rights, and Official Sex Categories

Explainer

Grants equal marriage and civil rights to all adults regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity. Officially recognises three sex categories and protects LGBT+ individuals from discrimination.

 

Legal Text

• Equal marriage for all consenting adults.

• Legal categories: Man, Woman, Trans-Identified.

• Sporting bodies must provide fair, separate categories.

• Adoption rights and civil services must not discriminate.

• Civil registrars must perform same-sex or trans marriages; religious groups are exempt.

• Hate crimes based on LGBT+ identity are punishable.

(Note: Full detailed text stored in Acts or flipbook appendix if required.)

Freedom of Expression and Respect for National Symbols

Explainer

Protects political speech while setting boundaries on public harassment, repeated threats, and disrespect to war memorials, military funerals, and the national flag.

 

Legal Text

• Government agencies must answer phones during business hours.

• Callbacks must be offered instead of automated hang-ups

• Staff cannot hang up without reason.

• Serious threats must be logged and reviewed.

• Repeated non-compliance may result in fines and corrective orders.

Government Telephone Access

Explainer

Requires all government departments to maintain live telephone support. Bans hanging up on callers and ensures human escalation if AI systems fail to resolve concerns.

 

Legal Text

• Government agencies must answer phones during business hours.

• Callbacks must be offered instead of automated hang-ups.

• Staff cannot hang up without reason.

• Serious threats must be logged and reviewed.

• Repeated non-compliance may result in fines and corrective orders.

Pre-Conviction Neutral Terminology

Explainer

Protects the presumption of innocence by requiring government and media outlets to refer to individuals as “accused” or “alleged” prior to legal conviction — not “criminal” or “victim.”

 

Legal Text

• Government statements must avoid the terms “victim” or “criminal” until a legal verdict is reached.

• Acceptable language includes “complainant,” “accused,” or “alleged.”

• Internally, support services may use neutral health or welfare terms.

• Applies to all public institutions and law enforcement bodies.

• Applies to all public institutions and law enforcement bodies.

Anti-Doxxing and Unsubstantiated Accusations

Explainer

Makes it illegal to publicly accuse someone of a serious crime without proof or to publish their private information (e.g. address, phone number) without consent.

 

Legal Text

• It is a criminal offence to label someone a rapist, murderer, or similar without conviction or clear evidence.

• Accusations must be phrased as “alleged” or “suspected.”

• No publishing of addresses, phone numbers, or private data without consent (doxxing).

• Journalists may use legal disclaimers.

• Violations may result in fines and/or up to 6 months' imprisonment.

Equal Pay for Equal Work

Explainer

Requires all employers to pay men and women equally for the same or similar work. Prohibits gender-based wage discrimination and ensures transparency and enforcement.

 

Legal Text

• Applies to all employers: public, private, and non-profit.

• Applies to all employers: public, private, and non-profit.

• Differences allowed only for merit, seniority, or geography — not gender.

• Citizens may file complaints and receive back pay.

• Employers may face penalties for systemic violations.

• Whistleblower protections apply.

Access to Free Menstrual Products

Explainer

Establishes a universal right to free menstrual hygiene products through a government-run card system, local access points, and home delivery. Production must begin within 24 months.

 

Legal Text

• Government to produce tampons, pads, and menstrual cups.

• Access guaranteed for all citizens aged 10–55.

• Distribution via pharmacies, schools, hospitals, and direct-to-door (GovPost).

• No personal data may be shared; monthly caps prevent abuse.

• Failure to comply may result in sanctions for agencies.

• Parliamentary funding required and protected by law.

Right to Protest Without Unjust Arrest

Explainer

Guarantees the right to protest without fear of harassment, intimidation, or arrest unless a serious offence is committed. Peaceful assembly is constitutionally protected.

 

Legal Text

• Peaceful protest is a fundamental right.

• Police may not arrest or intimidate protestors unless violence or criminal damage occurs.

• Lawful assembly in public spaces may not be shut down without justification.

• Citizens wrongfully arrested during protests may claim damages.

• Parliament may regulate crowd safety, but not content of speech.

Presumption of Innocence

Explainer

Affirms that every individual is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The burden of proof lies with the prosecution, and public language must reflect this.

 

Legal Text

Every person charged with a criminal offence shall be presumed innocent until proven guilty according to law. No court, government agency, or media outlet shall describe an accused individual as guilty or use terminology implying guilt prior to conviction. The burden of proof shall rest with the prosecution, and all trials shall adhere to the principles of fairness, impartiality, and legal due process.

Constitutional Supremacy Clause

Explainer

Declares the Constitution and this Bill of Rights to be the highest law in the land. No law, order, or regulation may override the protections and principles set forth herein.

 

Legal Text

This Bill of Rights, together with the Constitution of The UNITED COMMONWEALTH UNION and any properly ratified amendments thereto, shall be the supreme law of the land. No Act of Parliament, executive order, judicial decision, or administrative regulation may contravene or override the rights and protections guaranteed herein. All persons and institutions, public or private, shall be bound by the Constitution and this Bill of Rights.

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