What does a constitution primarily define for a government?

A constitution primarily defines the basic structures and principles of government, serving as the foundational legal document that outlines how a government is organized and how it functions. This includes the establishment of various branches of government, such as the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, and their respective powers and responsibilities. It delineates the framework within which authority is exercised, including how laws are made, how leaders are elected, and how government interacts with its citizens.

This foundational aspect ensures that the government operates within a rule of law and provides a mechanism for accountability, stability, and predictability in governance. By clearly defining these structures and principles, a constitution sets the stage for the functioning of democratic processes and the protection of rights, although the rights of citizens, political party systems, and economic roles may also be influenced by constitutional provisions, they are not the primary function of a constitution.