Chapter One
The first few articles of the constitution give basic form to the nature of the government of the Republic. It binds the government to a "respect for the rights and freedoms of man and citizen"; proclaims the Charter of Fundamental Rights and Basic Freedoms an "integral component of the constitutional system"; establishes the republic as a democratic, law-abiding state, deriving its sovereignty from the people; says that "majority decisions shall respect protection of minorities"; and enjoins the Republic "to a prudent utilization of natural resources and to protection of natural wealth". In this early part of the document, the constitution also allows for its amendment by a Constitutional Act, but forbids amending the constitution in any way that will compromise the Republic's standing as a "democratic, law-abiding state". Chapter One gives an outline of the Republic's duties towards international law, saying (in part) that conflicts between domestic laws and international laws binding upon the Republic must be resolved in favor of international agreements. The opening chapter concludes by defining the capital, national symbols, territory and rules of citizenship for the Republic (Articles 1–14).
Read more about this topic: Constitution Of The Czech Republic
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