Comparative Analysis of Constitutional Designs: Croatia and Kosovo as Hybrid Parliamentary States Cover Image

Analiza porównawcza projektów konstytucyjnych: Chorwacja i Kosowo jako hybrydowe państwa parlamentarne
Comparative Analysis of Constitutional Designs: Croatia and Kosovo as Hybrid Parliamentary States

Author(s): Islam Pepaj, Behar Selimi
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences, Law, Constitution, Jurisprudence
Published by: Kancelaria Sejmu
Keywords: Croatia; Kosovo; hybrid parliamentary systems; presidential powers; constitutional analysis; government formation; presidential election

Summary/Abstract: This paper undertakes a comparative analysis of the role of the president in the hybrid parliamentary systems of Croatia and Kosovo. The text discusses debates conducted so far on potential reforms in both systems, including the shift from direct to indirect presidential elections in Croatia and vice versa in Kosovo, highlighting the complexities faced by each political elite in reaching a consensus on constitutional amendments. The comparative study also scrutinises the nature of executive powers, the president’s symbolic status as a unifying force, his or her partisan neutrality, and his or her powers of appointment of high state officials. It emphasises the need to maintain checks and balances to prevent centralised power, while fostering rational decision-making rooted in popular legitimacy.Grounded in an analysis of legal documents, scholarly literature, and media discourse, the paper provides conclusions on issues such as the challenges and implications of executive power and the pivotal role of balanced powers within democratic governance. It also touches upon public and expert opinions regarding not only direct but also indirect elections and their influence on state political stability and government formation.

  • Issue Year: 180/2024
  • Issue No: 1-2
  • Page Range: 153-172
  • Page Count: 20
  • Language: English, Polish
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