Telegraph Agency of the Soviet Union

Telegraph Agency of the Soviet Union

Constitution of 1977

Adopted at the extraordinary seventh session of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of the ninth convocation

October 7, 1977

Having won victory in the civil war and having repelled the imperialist intervention, the Soviet power carried out the most profound social and economic transformations, once and for all put an end to the exploitation of man by man, to class antagonisms and national enmity. The unification of the Soviet republics into the Union of SSR multiplied the forces and possibilities of the peoples of the country in the building of socialism. Public ownership of the means of production and genuine democracy for the working masses were established. For the first time in the history of mankind a socialist society was created.

A vivid manifestation of the strength of socialism was the unfading feat of the Soviet people and its Armed Forces, which won a historic victory in the Great Patriotic War. This victory strengthened the authority and international positions of the USSR and opened new favorable possibilities for the growth of the forces of socialism, national liberation, democracy and peace throughout the world.

Continuing their creative activity, the working people of the Soviet Union ensured the rapid and all-round development of the country and the improvement of the socialist system. The alliance of the working class, the collective-farm peasantry and the people's intelligentsia, and the friendship of the nations and nationalities of the USSR, grew stronger. The social, political and ideological unity of Soviet society took shape, with the working class as its leading force. Having fulfilled the tasks of the dictatorship of the proletariat, the Soviet state became a state of the whole people. The leading role of the Communist Party - the vanguard of the whole people - increased.

A developed socialist society has been built in the USSR. At this stage, when socialism is developing on its own basis, the creative forces of the new system and the advantages of the socialist way of life are being revealed ever more fully, and the working people are enjoying ever more widely the fruits of the great revolutionary gains.

This is a society in which mighty productive forces and advanced science and culture have been created, in which the well-being of the people is constantly growing and ever more favorable conditions are taking shape for the all-round development of the individual.

This is a society of mature socialist social relations, in which, on the basis of the drawing together of all classes and social strata, the legal and actual equality of all nations and nationalities and their fraternal cooperation, a new historical community of people - the Soviet people - has taken shape.

This is a society of high organization, ideological commitment and consciousness of the working people - patriots and internationalists.

This is a society whose law of life is the concern of all for the good of each and the concern of each for the good of all.

This is a society of genuine democracy, whose political system ensures the effective management of all public affairs, the ever more active participation of the working people in state life, and the combination of the real rights and freedoms of citizens with their duties and responsibility to society.

Developed socialist society is a natural stage on the path to communism.

The highest goal of the Soviet state is the building of a classless communist society, in which public communist self-government will develop. The main tasks of the socialist state of the whole people are: the creation of the material and technical base of communism, the improvement of socialist social relations and their transformation into communist relations, the education of the man of communist society, the raising of the material and cultural level of life of the working people, the ensuring of the security of the country, and the promotion of the strengthening of peace and the development of international cooperation.

The Soviet people,

guided by the ideas of scientific communism and maintaining fidelity to its revolutionary traditions,

relying on the great social, economic and political gains of socialism,

striving for the further development of socialist democracy,

taking into account the international position of the USSR as an integral part of the world socialist system and conscious of its international responsibility,

preserving the continuity of the ideas and principles of the first Soviet Constitution of 1918, Constitution of the USSR of 1924 and Constitution of the USSR of 1936,

consolidates the foundations of the social system and policy of the USSR, establishes the rights, freedoms and duties of citizens, the principles of organization and the goals of the socialist state of the whole people, and proclaims them in the present Constitution.

I. Foundations of the social system and policy of the USSR

Chapter 1. The political system

Article 1. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is a socialist state of the whole people, expressing the will and interests of the workers, peasants and intelligentsia, the working people of all the nations and nationalities of the country.

Article 2. All power in the USSR belongs to the people.

The people exercise state power through the Soviets of People's Deputies, which constitute the political foundation of the USSR.

All other state bodies are controlled by and accountable to the Soviets of People's Deputies.

Article 3. The organization and activity of the Soviet state are built in accordance with the principle of democratic centralism: the election of all bodies of state power from top to bottom, their accountability to the people, and the binding nature of the decisions of higher bodies for lower bodies. Democratic centralism combines unified leadership with initiative and creative activity at the local level, with the responsibility of each state body and official for the task entrusted to them.

Article 4. The Soviet state and all its bodies operate on the basis of socialist legality and ensure the protection of law and order, the interests of society, and the rights and freedoms of citizens.

State and public organizations and officials are obliged to observe the Constitution of the USSR and Soviet laws.

Article 5. The most important questions of state life are submitted for nationwide discussion and are also put to a nationwide vote (referendum).

Article 6. The leading and guiding force of Soviet society and the nucleus of its political system, of state and public organizations is the Communist Party of the Soviet Union. The CPSU exists for the people and serves the people.

Armed with Marxist-Leninist doctrine, the Communist Party determines the general perspective of the development of society, the line of the domestic and foreign policy of the USSR, directs the great creative activity of the Soviet people, and imparts a planned, scientifically substantiated character to their struggle for the victory of communism.

All Party organizations operate within the framework of the Constitution of the USSR.

Article 7. Trade unions, the All-Union Leninist Communist Youth League, cooperative and other public organizations, in accordance with their statutory tasks, participate in the management of state and public affairs and in the resolution of political, economic, and socio-cultural issues.

Article 8. Labor collectives participate in the discussion and resolution of state and public affairs, in the planning of production and social development, in the preparation and placement of personnel, in the discussion and resolution of issues of managing enterprises and institutions, improving working and living conditions, and using funds intended for the development of production, as well as for socio-cultural measures and material incentives.

Labor collectives develop socialist competition, help disseminate advanced methods of work, strengthen labor discipline, educate their members in the spirit of communist morality, and concern themselves with raising their political consciousness, culture, and professional qualifications.

Article 9. The main direction of the development of the political system of Soviet society is the further unfolding of socialist democracy: the ever broader participation of citizens in the management of the affairs of the state and society, the improvement of the state apparatus, the enhancement of the activity of public organizations, the strengthening of people's control, the strengthening of the legal foundation of state and public life, the expansion of glasnost, and the constant consideration of public opinion.

Chapter 2. The Economic System

Article 10. The foundation of the economic system of the USSR is socialist ownership of the means of production in the form of state (public) and collective-farm-cooperative property.

Socialist property also includes the property of trade union and other public organizations that is necessary for them to carry out their statutory tasks.

The state protects socialist property and creates conditions for its multiplication.

No one has the right to use socialist property for purposes of personal gain or for other selfish purposes.

Article 11. State property is the common heritage of the entire Soviet people and the main form of socialist property.

The exclusive property of the state includes: land, its mineral resources, waters, and forests. The state owns the basic means of production in industry, construction, and agriculture, the means of transport and communications, banks, the property of state-organized trade, municipal, and other enterprises, the basic urban housing stock, as well as other property necessary for the fulfillment of the tasks of the state.

Article 12. The property of collective farms and other cooperative organizations and their associations consists of the means of production and other property necessary for them to carry out their statutory tasks.

The land occupied by collective farms is secured to them for free and indefinite use.

The state promotes the development of collective-farm-cooperative property and its convergence with state property.

Collective farms, like other land users, are obliged to use the land efficiently, treat it with care, and increase its fertility.

Article 13. The basis of the personal property of citizens of the USSR is labor income. Personal property may include articles of everyday use, personal consumption, convenience, and subsidiary household economy, a residential house, and labor savings. The personal property of citizens and the right to inherit it are protected by the state.

Citizens may have in their use plots of land provided in the manner established by law for keeping a subsidiary household (including the keeping of livestock and poultry), for gardening and vegetable growing, as well as for individual housing construction. Citizens are obliged to make rational use of the land plots provided to them. The state and collective farms assist citizens in keeping a subsidiary household.

Property that is in the personal ownership or use of citizens must not serve to derive unearned income or be used to the detriment of the interests of society.

Article 14. The source of the growth of social wealth and of the well-being of the people and of every Soviet person is the labor of Soviet people, free from exploitation.

In accordance with the socialist principle "From each according to his abilities, to each according to his work," the state exercises control over the measure of labor and consumption. It determines the amount of the tax on income subject to taxation.

Socially useful labor and its results determine a person's position in society. The state, combining material and moral incentives and encouraging innovation and a creative attitude toward work, promotes the transformation of labor into the first vital necessity of every Soviet person.

Article 15. The highest goal of social production under socialism is the fullest possible satisfaction of the growing material and spiritual needs of people.

Relying on the creative activity of the working people, socialist competition, and the achievements of scientific and technological progress, and improving the forms and methods of managing the economy, the state ensures the growth of labor productivity, an increase in the efficiency of production and the quality of work, and the dynamic, planned, and proportional development of the national economy.

Article 16. The economy of the USSR constitutes a single national economic complex, encompassing all links of social production, distribution, and exchange on the territory of the country.

The management of the economy is carried out on the basis of state plans for economic and social development, taking into account the sectoral and territorial principles, and combining centralized management with the economic independence and initiative of enterprises, associations, and other organizations. At the same time, cost accounting, profit, cost of production, and other economic levers and incentives are actively used.

Article 17. In the USSR, in accordance with the law, individual labor activity is permitted in the sphere of handicrafts and trades, agriculture, consumer services for the population, as well as other types of activity based exclusively on the personal labor of citizens and members of their families. The state regulates individual labor activity, ensuring its use in the interests of society.

Article 18. In the interests of present and future generations, the USSR takes the necessary measures for the protection and scientifically substantiated, rational use of the land and its mineral resources, water resources, plant and animal life, for keeping the air and water clean, ensuring the reproduction of natural wealth and improving the environment surrounding man.

Chapter 3. Social Development and Culture

Article 19. The social basis of the USSR is the unbreakable alliance of the workers, peasants and intelligentsia.

The state promotes the strengthening of the social homogeneity of society - the erasure of class distinctions, of substantial differences between town and country, between mental and physical labor, and the all-round development and drawing together of all the nations and nationalities of the USSR.

Article 20. In accordance with the communist ideal "The free development of each is the condition for the free development of all", the state sets as its goal the expansion of real opportunities for citizens to apply their creative forces, abilities and talents, and for the all-round development of the individual.

Article 21. The state concerns itself with improving working conditions and labor protection, with its scientific organization, with the reduction and, subsequently, the complete elimination of heavy physical labor on the basis of the comprehensive mechanization and automation of production processes in all branches of the national economy.

Article 22. In the USSR the program of transforming agricultural labor into a variety of industrial labor is consistently put into effect; of expanding in rural areas the network of institutions of public education, culture, public health, trade and public catering, consumer services and municipal services; of transforming villages and hamlets into well-appointed settlements.

Article 23. On the basis of the growth of labor productivity, the state steadily pursues a course toward raising the level of wages and the real incomes of working people.

In order to more fully satisfy the needs of Soviet people, public consumption funds are created. With the broad participation of public organizations and work collectives, the state ensures the growth and fair distribution of these funds.

Article 24. In the USSR, state systems of public health, social security, trade and public catering, consumer services and municipal services operate and develop.

The state encourages the activity of cooperative and other public organizations in all spheres of services for the population. It promotes the development of mass physical culture and sports.

Article 25. In the USSR there exists and is being improved a unified system of public education, which provides general and vocational training for citizens, serves communist upbringing, the spiritual and physical development of young people, and prepares them for labor and social activity.

Article 26. In accordance with the needs of society, the state ensures the planned development of science and the training of scientific personnel, and organizes the introduction of the results of scientific research into the national economy and other spheres of life.

Article 27. The state concerns itself with the protection, augmentation and broad use of spiritual values for the moral and aesthetic upbringing of Soviet people and the raising of their cultural level.

In the USSR the development of professional art and folk artistic creativity is encouraged in every way.

Chapter 4. Foreign Policy

Article 28. The USSR steadily pursues the Leninist policy of peace and stands for the strengthening of the security of peoples and broad international cooperation.

The foreign policy of the USSR is aimed at ensuring favorable international conditions for the building of communism in the USSR, protecting the state interests of the Soviet Union, strengthening the positions of world socialism, supporting the struggle of peoples for national liberation and social progress, preventing aggressive wars, achieving general and complete disarmament, and consistently implementing the principle of peaceful coexistence of states with different social systems.

In the USSR the propaganda of war is prohibited.

Article 29. The relations of the USSR with other states are built on the basis of observance of the principles of sovereign equality; mutual renunciation of the use of force or the threat of force; inviolability of borders; territorial integrity of states; peaceful settlement of disputes; non-interference in internal affairs; respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms; equality of rights and the right of peoples to dispose of their own destiny; cooperation between states; conscientious fulfillment of obligations arising from the generally recognized principles and norms of international law and from international treaties concluded by the USSR.

Article 30. The USSR, as an integral part of the world system of socialism and of the socialist community, develops and strengthens friendship and cooperation and comradely mutual assistance with the countries of socialism on the basis of the principle of socialist internationalism, and actively participates in economic integration and in the international socialist division of labor.

Chapter 5. Defense of the Socialist Fatherland

Article 31. The defense of the socialist Fatherland is one of the most important functions of the state and is the concern of the entire people.

In order to defend the socialist gains, the peaceful labor of the Soviet people, and the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the state, the Armed Forces of the USSR have been created and universal military service has been established.

The duty of the Armed Forces of the USSR before the people is to reliably defend the socialist Fatherland and to be in constant combat readiness, guaranteeing an immediate rebuff to any aggressor.

Article 32. The state ensures the security and defense capability of the country and equips the Armed Forces of the USSR with everything necessary.

The duties of state bodies, public organizations, officials and citizens with regard to ensuring the security of the country and strengthening its defense capability are determined by the legislation of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

II. The State and the Individual

Chapter 6. Citizenship of the USSR. Equality of Citizens

Article 33. A single union citizenship has been established in the USSR. Every citizen of a union republic is a citizen of the USSR.

The grounds and procedure for the acquisition and loss of Soviet citizenship are determined by the Law on Citizenship of the USSR.

Citizens of the USSR abroad enjoy the protection and patronage of the Soviet state.

Article 34. Citizens of the USSR are equal before the law, irrespective of origin, social and property status, racial and national affiliation, sex, education, language, attitude to religion, type and nature of occupation, place of residence and other circumstances.

The equality of rights of citizens of the USSR is ensured in all areas of economic, political, social and cultural life.

Article 35. Women and men have equal rights in the USSR.

The exercise of these rights is ensured by granting women equal opportunities with men in obtaining education and vocational training, in work, remuneration for it and promotion at work, in social, political and cultural activity, as well as by special measures to protect the labor and health of women; by creating conditions enabling women to combine work with motherhood; by legal protection, material and moral support of motherhood and childhood, including the granting of paid leave and other benefits to pregnant women and mothers, and the gradual reduction of working time for women with small children.

Article 36. Citizens of the USSR of different races and nationalities have equal rights.

The exercise of these rights is ensured by the policy of all-round development and drawing together of all nations and nationalities of the USSR, by educating citizens in the spirit of Soviet patriotism and socialist internationalism, and by the opportunity to use their native language and the languages of other peoples of the USSR.

Any direct or indirect restriction of rights, the establishment of direct or indirect advantages for citizens on racial and national grounds, as well as any preaching of racial or national exclusiveness, hostility or contempt, are punishable by law.

Article 37. Foreign citizens and stateless persons in the USSR are guaranteed the rights and freedoms provided for by law, including the right to apply to a court and other state bodies for the protection of their personal, property, family and other rights.

Foreign citizens and stateless persons present on the territory of the USSR are obliged to respect the Constitution of the USSR and to observe Soviet laws.

Article 38. The USSR grants the right of asylum to foreigners persecuted for defending the interests of the working people and the cause of peace, for participation in the revolutionary and national-liberation movement, for progressive social, political, scientific or other creative activity.

Chapter 7. Fundamental rights, freedoms and duties of citizens of the USSR

Article 39. Citizens of the USSR possess the full range of social, economic, political and personal rights and freedoms proclaimed and guaranteed by the Constitution of the USSR and Soviet laws. The socialist system ensures the expansion of rights and freedoms and the continuous improvement of the living conditions of citizens as the programs of social, economic and cultural development are carried out.

The exercise by citizens of their rights and freedoms must not damage the interests of society and the state or the rights of other citizens.

Article 40. Citizens of the USSR have the right to work, that is, to obtain guaranteed employment with remuneration for work in accordance with its quantity and quality and not below the minimum amount established by the state, including the right to choose a profession, type of occupation and work in accordance with vocation, abilities, vocational training and education, and taking into account social needs.

This right is ensured by the socialist system of economy, the steady growth of the productive forces, free vocational training, the upgrading of labor qualifications and training in new specialties, and the development of systems of vocational guidance and job placement.

Article 41. Citizens of the USSR have the right to rest.

This right is ensured by the establishment for workers and employees of a working week not exceeding 41 hours, a shorter working day for a number of professions and industries, and shorter working hours at night; by the granting of annual paid leave and days of weekly rest, as well as by the expansion of the network of cultural, educational and health institutions, the development of mass sport, physical culture and tourism; and by the creation of favorable opportunities for rest at the place of residence and other conditions for the rational use of free time.

The length of working time and rest of collective farmers is regulated by the collective farms.

Article 42. Citizens of the USSR have the right to health protection.

This right is ensured by free qualified medical care provided by state health institutions; by the expansion of the network of institutions for the treatment and promotion of the health of citizens; by the development and improvement of safety techniques and industrial sanitation; by the carrying out of extensive preventive measures; by measures to improve the environment; by special concern for the health of the rising generation, including the prohibition of child labor not connected with education and labor training; and by the development of scientific research aimed at preventing and reducing disease and at ensuring a long active life for citizens.

Article 43. Citizens of the USSR have the right to material security in old age, in the event of illness, of complete or partial loss of working capacity, and also on the loss of a breadwinner.

This right is guaranteed by social insurance for workers, employees and collective farmers, by temporary disability benefits; by the payment, at the expense of the state and the collective farms, of pensions for old age, disability and on the loss of a breadwinner; by the placement in employment of citizens who have partially lost their working capacity; by concern for elderly citizens and disabled persons; and by other forms of social security.

Article 44. Citizens of the USSR have the right to housing.

This right is ensured by the development and protection of the state and public housing stock, by assistance to cooperative and individual housing construction, by the fair distribution under public control of living space provided as the program for the construction of well-appointed housing is carried out, and also by low rent and charges for communal services. Citizens of the USSR must take good care of the housing provided to them.

Article 45. Citizens of the USSR have the right to education.

This right is ensured by the free provision of all forms of education, by the implementation of universal compulsory secondary education for young people, by the broad development of vocational, secondary specialized and higher education based on the connection of instruction with life and with production; by the development of correspondence and evening education; by the granting of state scholarships and privileges to pupils and students, and the free issue of school textbooks; by the opportunity to receive instruction in school in one's native language; and by the creation of conditions for self-education.

Article 46. USSR citizens have the right to enjoy the achievements of culture.

This right is ensured by the accessibility of the values of national and world culture held in state and public funds; by the development and even distribution of cultural and educational institutions throughout the country; by the development of television and radio, book publishing and the periodical press, and the network of free libraries; and by the expansion of cultural exchange with foreign states.

Article 47. In accordance with the goals of communist construction, USSR citizens are guaranteed freedom of scientific, technical and artistic creativity. It is ensured by the broad unfolding of scientific research, inventive and rationalizing activity, and the development of literature and art. The state creates the material conditions necessary for this, supports voluntary societies and creative unions, and organizes the introduction of inventions and rationalizing proposals into the national economy and other spheres of life.

The rights of authors, inventors and rationalizers are protected by the state.

Article 48. USSR citizens have the right to participate in the management of state and public affairs, and in the discussion and adoption of laws and decisions of nationwide and local significance.

This right is ensured by the opportunity to elect and be elected to the Soviets of People's Deputies and other elective state bodies, to take part in nationwide discussions and votes, in people's control, in the work of state bodies, public organizations and bodies of public initiative, and in meetings of work collectives and at the place of residence.

Article 49. Every USSR citizen has the right to submit proposals to state bodies and public organizations for the improvement of their activity, and to criticize shortcomings in their work.

Officials are obliged to examine citizens' proposals and applications within the established time limits, reply to them and take the necessary measures.

Persecution for criticism is prohibited. Persons who persecute others for criticism are held accountable.

Article 50. In accordance with the interests of the people and for the purpose of strengthening and developing the socialist system, USSR citizens are guaranteed the freedoms of speech, press, assembly, meetings, street processions and demonstrations.

The exercise of these political freedoms is ensured by the provision to the working people and their organizations of public buildings, streets and squares, by the broad dissemination of information, and by the opportunity to use the press, television and radio.

Article 51. In accordance with the goals of communist construction, USSR citizens have the right to unite in public organizations that promote the development of political activity and initiative and the satisfaction of their diverse interests.

Public organizations are guaranteed the conditions for the successful fulfillment of the tasks set out in their charters.

Article 52. USSR citizens are guaranteed freedom of conscience, that is, the right to profess any religion or none, to perform religious rites or to conduct atheistic propaganda. Incitement of enmity and hatred in connection with religious beliefs is prohibited.

The church in the USSR is separated from the state, and the school from the church.

Article 53. The family is under the protection of the state.

Marriage is based on the voluntary consent of the woman and the man; the spouses are fully equal in family relations.

The state shows concern for the family by creating and developing a broad network of children's institutions, organizing and improving consumer services and public catering, paying benefits on the birth of a child, granting allowances and privileges to families with many children, as well as other types of allowances and assistance to the family.

Article 54. USSR citizens are guaranteed inviolability of the person. No one may be subjected to arrest except on the basis of a court decision or with the sanction of a procurator.

Article 55. USSR citizens are guaranteed inviolability of the home. No one has the right, without a lawful basis, to enter a dwelling against the will of the persons living in it.

Article 56. The private life of citizens, and the secrecy of correspondence, telephone conversations and telegraphic communications, are protected by law.

Article 57. Respect for the person and protection of the rights and freedoms of citizens are the duty of all state bodies, public organizations and officials.

USSR citizens have the right to judicial protection against encroachments on their honor and dignity, life and health, personal freedom and property.

Article 58. USSR citizens have the right to appeal against the actions of officials and of state and public bodies. Complaints must be examined in the manner and within the time limits established by law.

The actions of officials committed in violation of the law, in excess of their powers, or infringing the rights of citizens may, in the manner established by law, be appealed to a court.

USSR citizens have the right to compensation for damage caused by the unlawful actions of state and public organizations, as well as of officials in the performance of their official duties.

Article 59. The exercise of rights and freedoms is inseparable from the fulfillment by a citizen of his duties.

A USSR citizen is obliged to observe the USSR Constitution and Soviet laws, to respect the rules of socialist community life, and to bear with dignity the high title of citizen of the USSR.

Article 60. It is the duty and a matter of honor of every USSR citizen able to work to engage in conscientious labor in the field of socially useful activity he has chosen, and to observe labor discipline. Evasion of socially useful labor is incompatible with the principles of a socialist society.

Article 61. A USSR citizen is obliged to protect and strengthen socialist property. It is the duty of a USSR citizen to combat the theft and wasteful use of state and public property, and to treat the people's wealth with care.

Persons who encroach on socialist property are punished according to law.

Article 62. A USSR citizen is obliged to safeguard the interests of the Soviet state and to contribute to the strengthening of its power and authority.

Defense of the socialist Fatherland is the sacred duty of every citizen of the USSR.

Treason against the Motherland is the gravest crime against the people.

Article 63. Military service in the ranks of the Armed Forces of the USSR is the honorable duty of Soviet citizens.

Article 64. It is the duty of every citizen of the USSR to respect the national dignity of other citizens and to strengthen the friendship of nations and nationalities of the Soviet multinational state.

Article 65. A citizen of the USSR is obliged to respect the rights and lawful interests of other persons, to be uncompromising toward antisocial acts, and to promote in every way the protection of public order.

Article 66. Citizens of the USSR are obliged to concern themselves with the upbringing of children, to prepare them for socially useful labor, and to raise them as worthy members of socialist society. Children are obliged to concern themselves with their parents and to render them assistance.

Article 67. Citizens of the USSR are obliged to protect nature and safeguard its riches.

Article 68. Concern for the preservation of historical monuments and other cultural values is the duty and obligation of citizens of the USSR.

Article 69. It is the internationalist duty of a citizen of the USSR to promote the development of friendship and cooperation with the peoples of other countries and the maintenance and strengthening of universal peace.

III. The national-state structure of the USSR

Chapter 8. The USSR is a union state

Article 70. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is a single union multinational state, formed on the basis of the principle of socialist federalism, as a result of the free self-determination of nations and the voluntary association of equal Soviet Socialist Republics.

The USSR embodies the state unity of the Soviet people and draws together all nations and nationalities for the purpose of jointly building communism.

Article 71. The Union of Soviet Socialist Republics unites:

The Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic,

The Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Belorussian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic

The Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Moldavian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic,

The Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic.

Article 72. Each union republic retains the right freely to secede from the USSR.

Article 73. The jurisdiction of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, represented by its highest bodies of state authority and administration, shall include:

1) the admission of new republics to the USSR; the confirmation of the formation of new autonomous republics and autonomous regions within union republics;

2) the determination of the state border of the USSR and the confirmation of changes in borders between union republics;

3) the establishment of general principles for the organization and activity of republican and local bodies of state authority and administration;

4) the ensuring of unity of legislative regulation throughout the territory of the USSR, the establishment of the fundamentals of legislation of the Union of SSR and the union republics;

5) implementation of a unified socio-economic policy, direction of the country's economy; determination of the main directions of scientific and technological progress and general measures for the rational use and protection of natural resources; drafting and approval of state plans for the economic and social development of the USSR, approval of reports on their fulfillment;

6) drafting and approval of the unified state budget of the USSR, approval of the report on its execution; direction of the unified monetary and credit system; establishment of taxes and revenues going toward the formation of the state budget of the USSR; determination of policy in the area of prices and remuneration of labor;

7) direction of branches of the national economy, associations and enterprises of union subordination; general direction of branches of union-republican subordination;

8) questions of peace and war, defense of sovereignty, protection of the state borders and territory of the USSR, organization of defense, direction of the Armed Forces of the USSR;

9) ensuring state security;

10) representation of the USSR in international relations; relations of the USSR with foreign states and international organizations; establishment of the general procedure for and coordination of relations of the union republics with foreign states and international organizations; foreign trade and other types of foreign economic activity on the basis of the state monopoly;

11) control over observance of the Constitution of the USSR and ensuring that the constitutions of the union republics conform to the Constitution of the USSR;

12) resolution of other questions of all-union significance.

Article 74. Laws of the USSR shall have equal force throughout the territory of all union republics. In the event of a discrepancy between a law of a union republic and an all-union law, the law of the USSR shall apply.

Article 75. The territory of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is a single whole and includes the territories of the union republics.

The sovereignty of the USSR extends throughout its entire territory.

Chapter 9. The Union Soviet Socialist Republic

Article 76. A union republic is a sovereign Soviet socialist state which has united with other Soviet republics in the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.

Outside the limits specified in Article 73 of the Constitution of the USSR, a union republic independently exercises state power on its territory.

A union republic has its own Constitution, which corresponds to the Constitution of the USSR and takes into account the specific features of the republic.

Article 77. A union republic participates in the resolution of questions within the jurisdiction of the USSR in the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Government of the USSR and other bodies of the USSR.

A union republic ensures comprehensive economic and social development on its territory, promotes the exercise on that territory of the powers of the USSR, and implements the decisions of the highest bodies of state authority and administration of the USSR.

On questions within its jurisdiction, a union republic coordinates and controls the activity of enterprises, institutions and organizations of union subordination.

Article 78. The territory of a union republic may not be altered without its consent. The boundaries between union republics may be changed by mutual agreement of the respective republics, which is subject to approval by the USSR.

Article 79. A union republic determines its own krai, oblast, okrug and raion division and resolves other questions of administrative-territorial structure.

Article 80. A union republic has the right to enter into relations with foreign states, conclude treaties with them and exchange diplomatic and consular representatives, and participate in the activity of international organizations.

Article 81. The sovereign rights of the union republics are protected by the USSR.

Chapter 10. The Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic

Article 82. An autonomous republic is part of a union republic.

Outside the limits of the rights of the USSR and the union republic, an autonomous republic independently resolves questions within its jurisdiction.

An autonomous republic has its own Constitution, which corresponds to the Constitution of the USSR and the Constitution of the union republic and takes into account the specific features of the autonomous republic.

Article 83. An autonomous republic participates in the resolution of questions within the jurisdiction of the USSR and the union republic through the highest bodies of state authority and administration of the USSR and the union republic respectively.

An autonomous republic ensures comprehensive economic and social development on its territory, promotes the exercise on that territory of the powers of the USSR and the union republic, and implements the decisions of the highest bodies of state authority and administration of the USSR and the union republic.

On questions within its jurisdiction, an autonomous republic coordinates and controls the activity of enterprises, institutions and organizations of union and republican (of the union republic) subordination.

Article 84. The territory of an autonomous republic may not be altered without its consent.

Article 85. The Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic comprises the autonomous Soviet socialist republics: Bashkir, Buryat, Dagestan, Kabardino-Balkarian, Kalmyk, Karelian, Komi, Mari, Mordovian, North Ossetian, Tatar, Tuva, Udmurt, Chechen-Ingush, Chuvash, Yakut.

The Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic comprises the Karakalpak Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic.

The Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic comprises the Abkhaz and Adjar autonomous Soviet socialist republics.

The Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic includes the Nakhichevan Autonomous Soviet Socialist Republic.

Chapter 11. Autonomous oblast and autonomous okrug

Article 86. An autonomous oblast is part of a union republic or a krai. A law on an autonomous oblast is adopted by the Supreme Soviet of the union republic on the proposal of the Council of People's Deputies of the autonomous oblast.

Article 87. The Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic includes the autonomous oblasts: Adygei, Gorno-Altai, Jewish, Karachay-Cherkess, and Khakass.

The Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic includes the South Ossetian autonomous oblast.

The Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic includes the Nagorno-Karabakh autonomous oblast.

The Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic includes the Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous oblast.

Article 88. An autonomous okrug is part of a krai or an oblast. A law on autonomous okrugs is adopted by the Supreme Soviet of the union republic.

IV. Councils of People's Deputies and the procedure for their election

Chapter 12. The system and principles of activity of the Councils of People's Deputies

Article 89. The Councils of People's Deputies - the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Supreme Soviets of the union republics, the Supreme Soviets of the autonomous republics, the krai and oblast Councils of People's Deputies, the Councils of People's Deputies of the autonomous oblasts and autonomous okrugs, and the district, city, city district, settlement and rural Councils of People's Deputies - constitute a single system of bodies of state authority.

Article 90. The term of office of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Supreme Soviets of the union republics and the Supreme Soviets of the autonomous republics is five years.

The term of office of the local Councils of People's Deputies is two and a half years.

Elections to the Councils of People's Deputies are called not later than two months before the expiration of the term of office of the respective Councils.

Article 91. The most important matters within the jurisdiction of the respective Councils of People's Deputies are considered and decided at their sessions.

The Councils of People's Deputies elect standing commissions and establish executive and administrative, as well as other bodies accountable to them.

Article 92. The Councils of People's Deputies form bodies of people's control, which combine state control with public control by the working people at enterprises, on collective farms, and in institutions and organizations.

The bodies of people's control monitor the fulfillment of state plans and assignments; combat violations of state discipline, manifestations of localism, a departmental approach to matters, mismanagement and waste, red tape and bureaucracy; and help improve the work of the state apparatus.

Article 93. The Councils of People's Deputies, directly and through the bodies they create, guide all branches of state, economic and socio-cultural construction, adopt decisions, ensure their execution, and exercise control over the implementation of decisions.

Article 94. The activity of the Councils of People's Deputies is based on collective, free, businesslike discussion and resolution of matters, on openness, on regular reporting by the executive and administrative bodies and other bodies created by the Councils to the Councils and to the population, and on the broad involvement of citizens in their work.

The Councils of People's Deputies and the bodies they create systematically inform the population about their work and the decisions adopted.

Chapter 13. The electoral system

Article 95. Elections of deputies to all Councils of People's Deputies are held on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot.

Article 96. Elections of deputies are universal: all citizens of the USSR who have reached the age of 18 have the right to vote and to be elected, except persons declared insane in accordance with the procedure established by law.

A citizen of the USSR who has reached the age of 21 may be elected a deputy to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 97. Elections of deputies are equal: each voter has one vote; all voters participate in the elections on an equal basis.

Article 98. Elections of deputies are direct: deputies to all Councils of People's Deputies are elected by citizens directly.

Article 99. Voting in the elections of deputies is secret: control over the expression of the will of voters is not permitted.

Article 100. The right to nominate candidates for deputies belongs to the organizations of the Communist Party of the Soviet Union, the trade unions, the All-Union Leninist Communist Youth League, cooperative and other public organizations, labor collectives, as well as meetings of servicemen by military units.

Citizens of the USSR and public organizations are guaranteed free and comprehensive discussion of the political, business and personal qualities of candidates for deputies, as well as the right to campaign at meetings, in the press, on television and radio.

Expenses connected with holding elections to the Councils of People's Deputies are borne by the state.

Article 101. Elections of deputies to the Councils of People's Deputies are held by electoral districts.

As a rule, a citizen of the USSR may not be elected to more than two Councils of People's Deputies.

The holding of elections to the Councils is ensured by electoral commissions, which are formed from representatives of public organizations, labor collectives and meetings of servicemen by military units.

The procedure for holding elections to the Councils of People's Deputies is determined by the laws of the USSR, the union and autonomous republics.

Article 102. Voters give mandates to their deputies.

The corresponding Councils of People's Deputies consider the mandates of voters, take them into account when drafting plans for economic and social development and drawing up the budget, organize the implementation of the mandates and inform citizens about their fulfillment.

Chapter 14. The People's Deputy

Article 103. Deputies are the plenipotentiary representatives of the people in the Councils of People's Deputies.

Participating in the work of the Councils, deputies resolve questions of state, economic and socio-cultural construction, organize the implementation of the Councils' decisions, and exercise control over the work of state bodies, enterprises, institutions and organizations.

In his activity a deputy is guided by statewide interests, takes into account the needs of the population of the electoral district, and strives to bring the mandates of voters to fruition.

Article 104. A deputy exercises his powers without breaking with his production or official activity.

During the sessions of the Council, and also for the exercise of deputy powers in other cases provided for by law, the deputy is released from the performance of production or official duties while retaining the average earnings at his place of permanent work.

Article 105. A deputy has the right of inquiry to the corresponding state bodies and officials, who are obliged to give an answer to the inquiry at a session of the Council.

A deputy has the right to address all state and public bodies, enterprises, institutions and organizations on questions of deputy activity and to take part in the consideration of the questions he has raised. The heads of the corresponding state and public bodies, enterprises, institutions and organizations are obliged to receive the deputy without delay and to consider his proposals within the established time limits.

Article 106. A deputy is provided with the conditions for the unhindered and effective exercise of his rights and duties.

The immunity of deputies, as well as other guarantees of deputy activity, are established by the Law on the Status of Deputies and other legislative acts of the USSR, the union and autonomous republics.

Article 107. A deputy is obliged to report on his work and the work of the Council to the voters, and also to the collectives and public organizations that nominated him as a candidate for deputy.

A deputy who has not justified the trust of the voters may be recalled at any time by decision of the majority of the voters in the manner established by law.

V. The highest bodies of state power and administration of the USSR

Chapter 15. The Supreme Soviet of the USSR

Article 108. The highest body of state power of the USSR is the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

The Supreme Soviet of the USSR is competent to decide all questions assigned by this Constitution to the jurisdiction of the USSR.

The adoption of the Constitution of the USSR and the introduction of amendments to it; the admission of new republics to the USSR and the approval of the formation of new autonomous republics and autonomous oblasts; the approval of the state plans for the economic and social development of the USSR, the state budget of the USSR and reports on their fulfillment; the formation of bodies of the USSR accountable to it are carried out exclusively by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Laws of the USSR are adopted by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR or by a nationwide vote (referendum) held by decision of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 109. The Supreme Soviet of the USSR consists of two chambers: the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities.

The chambers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are equal in rights.

Article 110. The Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities consist of an equal number of deputies.

The Council of the Union is elected by electoral districts with an equal number of inhabitants.

The Council of Nationalities is elected according to the norm: 32 deputies from each union republic, 11 deputies from each autonomous republic, 5 deputies from each autonomous oblast and one deputy from each autonomous okrug.

The Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities, on the presentation of the mandate commissions elected by them, adopt a decision on the recognition of the powers of deputies, and in the event of a violation of the legislation on elections, on the recognition of the elections of individual deputies as invalid.

Article 111. Each chamber of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR elects a Chairman of the chamber and four of his deputies.

The Chairmen of the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities direct the sittings of the corresponding chambers and manage their internal order.

Joint sittings of the chambers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are conducted alternately by the Chairmen of the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities.

Article 112. Sessions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are convened twice a year.

Extraordinary sessions are convened by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR on its initiative, and also on the proposal of a union republic or of not less than one third of the deputies of one of the chambers.

A session of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR consists of separate and joint sittings of the chambers, and also of sittings of the standing commissions of the chambers or commissions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR held in the period between them. The session is opened and closed at separate or joint sittings of the chambers.

Article 113. The right of legislative initiative in the Supreme Soviet of the USSR belongs to the Council of the Union, the Council of Nationalities, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the union republics in the person of their highest bodies of state power, the commissions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and the standing commissions of its chambers, the deputies of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Supreme Court of the USSR, and the Procurator General of the USSR.

Public organizations in the person of their all-union bodies also possess the right of legislative initiative.

Article 114. Draft laws and other questions submitted for consideration to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are discussed by the chambers at their separate or joint sittings. If necessary, a draft law or the corresponding question may be referred for preliminary or additional consideration to one or several commissions.

A law of the USSR is considered adopted if a majority of the total number of deputies of each of the chambers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR has voted for it in each chamber. Resolutions and other acts of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are adopted by a majority of the total number of deputies of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Draft laws and other most important questions of state life may, by a decision of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR or of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR adopted on their initiative or on the proposal of a union republic, be submitted to nationwide discussion.

Article 115. In the event of disagreement between the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities, the question is referred for resolution to a conciliation commission formed by the chambers on a parity basis, after which the question is considered a second time by the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities at a joint sitting. If agreement is not reached in this case either, the question is referred for discussion to the next session of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR or is submitted by it to a nationwide vote (referendum).

Article 116. Laws of the USSR, resolutions and other acts of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR are published in the languages of the union republics over the signatures of the Chairman and the Secretary of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 117. A deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR has the right to address an inquiry to the Council of Ministers of the USSR, to ministers and to the heads of other bodies formed by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR. The Council of Ministers of the USSR or the official to whom the inquiry is addressed is obliged to give an oral or written reply no later than within three days at the given session of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 118. A deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR may not be subjected to criminal liability, arrested or subjected to measures of administrative penalty imposed by judicial procedure without the consent of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, and in the period between its sessions, without the consent of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 119. The Supreme Soviet of the USSR elects at a joint sitting of the chambers the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, a permanently functioning body of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, accountable to it in all its activity and exercising, within the limits provided for by the Constitution, the functions of the highest body of state power of the USSR in the period between its sessions.

Article 120. The Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR is elected from among the deputies and consists of the Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet, the First Deputy Chairman, fifteen Deputy Chairmen, one from each union republic, the Secretary of the Presidium and twenty-one members of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 121. The Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR:

1) orders elections to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR;

2) convenes sessions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR;

3) coordinates the activity of the standing commissions of the chambers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR;

4) exercises supervision over the observance of the Constitution of the USSR and ensures the conformity of the constitutions and laws of the union republics with the Constitution and laws of the USSR;

5) gives interpretations of the laws of the USSR;

6) ratifies and denounces international treaties of the USSR;

7) annuls resolutions and orders of the Council of Ministers of the USSR and of the Councils of Ministers of the union republics in the event of their inconsistency with the law;

8) establishes military ranks, diplomatic ranks and other special ranks; confers the highest military ranks, diplomatic ranks and other special ranks;

9) institutes orders and medals of the USSR; establishes honorary titles of the USSR; awards orders and medals of the USSR; confers honorary titles of the USSR;

10) admits to citizenship of the USSR; decides questions of withdrawal from citizenship of the USSR and deprivation of citizenship of the USSR, and of the granting of asylum;

11) issues all-union acts on amnesty and exercises pardon;

12) appoints and recalls diplomatic representatives of the USSR in foreign states and at international organizations;

13) receives letters of credence and letters of recall of diplomatic representatives of foreign states accredited to it;

14) forms the Council of Defense of the USSR and approves its composition, appoints and replaces the supreme command of the Armed Forces of the USSR;

15) proclaims martial law in individual localities or throughout the country in the interests of the defense of the USSR;

16) proclaims general or partial mobilization;

17) in the period between sessions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, proclaims a state of war in the event of a military attack on the USSR or in the event of the necessity of fulfilling international treaty obligations on mutual defense against aggression;

18) exercises other powers established by the Constitution and laws of the USSR.

Article 122. The Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, in the period between sessions of the Supreme Soviet, with subsequent submission for its approval at the next session:

1) makes, when necessary, changes in the legislative acts of the USSR in force;

2) approves changes in the boundaries between union republics;

3) on the proposal of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, forms and abolishes ministries of the USSR and state committees of the USSR;

4) on the submission of the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, relieves of office and appoints individual persons who are members of the Council of Ministers of the USSR.

Article 123. The Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR issues edicts and adopts resolutions.

Article 124. Upon the expiration of the powers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR retains its powers until the formation by the newly elected Supreme Soviet of the USSR of a new Presidium.

The newly elected Supreme Soviet of the USSR is convened by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR of the previous composition not later than two months after the elections.

Article 125. The Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities elect from among the deputies standing commissions for the preliminary examination and preparation of matters within the jurisdiction of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, as well as to assist in carrying out the laws of the USSR and other decisions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and its Presidium, and to monitor the activity of state bodies and organizations. The chambers of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR may also create joint commissions on a parity basis.

The Supreme Soviet of the USSR creates, when it deems necessary, investigative, auditing and other commissions on any matter.

All state and public bodies, organizations and officials are obliged to comply with the requirements of the commissions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and the commissions of its chambers, and to submit to them the necessary materials and documents.

The recommendations of the commissions are subject to mandatory consideration by state and public bodies, institutions and organizations. The results of the consideration or the measures taken must be reported to the commissions within the established time limit.

Article 126. The Supreme Soviet of the USSR exercises control over the activity of all state bodies accountable to it.

The Supreme Soviet of the USSR forms the Committee of People's Control of the USSR, which heads the system of people's control bodies.

The organization and procedure of the activity of the people's control bodies are determined by the Law on People's Control in the USSR.

Article 127. The procedure of the activity of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and its bodies is determined by the Rules of Procedure of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and other laws of the USSR issued on the basis of the Constitution of the USSR.

Chapter 16. Council of Ministers of the USSR

Article 128. The Council of Ministers of the USSR - the Government of the USSR - is the highest executive and administrative body of state power of the USSR.

Article 129. The Council of Ministers of the USSR is formed by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR at a joint sitting of the Council of the Union and the Council of Nationalities, and consists of the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the first deputy chairmen and deputy chairmen of the Council, the ministers of the USSR, and the chairmen of the state committees of the USSR.

The Council of Ministers of the USSR includes, ex officio, the chairmen of the Councils of Ministers of the union republics.

On the proposal of the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the Supreme Soviet of the USSR may include in the composition of the Government of the USSR the heads of other bodies and organizations of the USSR.

The Council of Ministers of the USSR resigns its powers before the newly elected Supreme Soviet of the USSR at its first session.

Article 130. The Council of Ministers of the USSR is responsible and accountable to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, and in the period between sessions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR - to the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, to which it is accountable.

The Council of Ministers of the USSR regularly reports on its work to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 131. The Council of Ministers of the USSR is competent to decide all matters of state administration falling within the jurisdiction of the Union of SSR, insofar as they do not, in accordance with the Constitution, fall within the competence of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Within the limits of its powers, the Council of Ministers of the USSR:

1) ensures the direction of the national economy and social and cultural construction; drafts and implements measures to ensure the growth of the well-being and culture of the people, the development of science and technology, the rational use and protection of natural resources, the strengthening of the monetary and credit system, the implementation of a unified policy on prices, remuneration of labor, social security, the organization of state insurance and a unified system of accounting and statistics; organizes the management of industrial, construction, agricultural enterprises and associations, transport and communications enterprises, banks, as well as other organizations and institutions of union subordination;

2) drafts and submits to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR current and long-term state plans for the economic and social development of the USSR, and the state budget of the USSR; takes measures to implement the state plans and budget; submits to the Supreme Soviet of the USSR reports on the fulfillment of the plans and the execution of the budget;

3) implements measures to protect the interests of the state, safeguard socialist property and public order, and ensure and protect the rights and freedoms of citizens;

4) takes measures to ensure state security;

5) exercises general direction of the construction of the Armed Forces of the USSR, and determines the annual contingents of citizens subject to conscription for active military service;

6) exercises general direction in the field of relations with foreign states, foreign trade, and the economic, scientific, technical and cultural cooperation of the USSR with foreign countries; takes measures to ensure the fulfillment of international treaties of the USSR; approves and denounces intergovernmental international treaties;

7) forms, when necessary, committees, main administrations and other departments under the Council of Ministers of the USSR for matters of economic, social, cultural and defense construction.

Article 132. To decide matters connected with ensuring the direction of the national economy, and other matters of state administration, the Presidium of the Council of Ministers of the USSR acts as a standing body of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, consisting of the Chairman of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, the first deputy chairmen and deputy chairmen of the Council.

Article 133. On the basis of and in pursuance of the laws of the USSR and other decisions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and its Presidium, the Council of Ministers of the USSR issues decisions and orders and verifies their execution. Decisions and orders of the Council of Ministers of the USSR are binding throughout the territory of the USSR.

Article 134. The Council of Ministers of the USSR has the right, on matters falling within the jurisdiction of the Union of SSR, to suspend the execution of decisions and orders of the Councils of Ministers of the union republics, and also to annul acts of the ministries of the USSR, the state committees of the USSR, and other bodies subordinate to it.

Article 135. The Council of Ministers of the USSR unites and directs the work of the all-union and union-republic ministries and state committees of the USSR, and other bodies subordinate to it.

The all-union ministries and state committees of the USSR direct the branches of administration entrusted to them or exercise interbranch administration throughout the territory of the USSR, either directly or through bodies created by them.

Union-republic ministries and state committees of the USSR direct the branches of administration entrusted to them or exercise interbranch administration, as a rule, through the corresponding ministries, state committees, and other bodies of the union republics, and directly manage individual enterprises and associations under union subordination. The procedure for transferring enterprises and associations from republican and local subordination to union subordination is determined by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Ministries and state committees of the USSR are responsible for the condition and development of the spheres of administration entrusted to them; within the limits of their competence they issue acts on the basis of and in pursuance of the laws of the USSR, other decisions of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR and its Presidium, and the resolutions and orders of the Council of Ministers of the USSR; they organize and verify their implementation.

Article 136. The competence of the Council of Ministers of the USSR and its Presidium, the procedure for their activity, the relations of the Council of Ministers with other state bodies, and also the list of all-union and union-republic ministries and state committees of the USSR are determined on the basis of the Constitution by the Law on the Council of Ministers of the USSR.

VI. Fundamentals of the structure of bodies of state power and administration in the union republics

Chapter 17. Higher bodies of state power and administration of a union republic

Article 137. The highest body of state power of a union republic is the Supreme Soviet of the union republic.

The Supreme Soviet of a union republic is competent to decide all questions assigned to the jurisdiction of the union republic by the Constitution of the USSR and the Constitution of the union republic.

The adoption of the Constitution of a union republic and the introduction of changes into it; the approval of state plans for economic and social development, the state budget of the union republic and reports on their implementation; and the formation of bodies accountable to it are carried out exclusively by the Supreme Soviet of the union republic.

Laws of a union republic are adopted by the Supreme Soviet of the union republic or by a popular vote (referendum) held by decision of the Supreme Soviet of the union republic.

Article 138. The Supreme Soviet of a union republic elects the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet - the permanently functioning body of the Supreme Soviet of the union republic, accountable to it in all its activity. The composition and powers of the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of a union republic are determined by the Constitution of the union republic.

Article 139. The Supreme Soviet of a union republic forms the Council of Ministers of the union republic - the Government of the union republic - the highest executive and administrative body of state power of the union republic.

The Council of Ministers of a union republic is responsible and accountable to the Supreme Soviet of the union republic, and in the period between sessions of the Supreme Soviet - to the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the union republic, to which it is accountable.

Article 140. The Council of Ministers of a union republic issues resolutions and orders on the basis of and in pursuance of the legislative acts of the USSR and the union republic, and the resolutions and orders of the Council of Ministers of the USSR, and organizes and verifies their implementation.

Article 141. The Council of Ministers of a union republic has the right to suspend the implementation of resolutions and orders of the Councils of Ministers of autonomous republics, and to annul decisions and orders of the executive committees of krai, oblast, and city (cities of republican subordination) Soviets of People's Deputies, and of the Soviets of People's Deputies of autonomous oblasts, and in union republics that do not have oblast division - of the executive committees of district and corresponding city Soviets of People's Deputies.

Article 142. The Council of Ministers of a union republic unites and directs the work of the union-republic and republican ministries, state committees of the union republic, and other bodies subordinate to it.

Union-republic ministries and state committees of a union republic direct the branches of administration entrusted to them or exercise interbranch administration, being subordinate both to the Council of Ministers of the union republic and to the corresponding union-republic ministry of the USSR or state committee of the USSR.

Republican ministries and state committees direct the branches of administration entrusted to them or exercise interbranch administration, being subordinate to the Council of Ministers of the union republic.

Chapter 18. Higher bodies of state power and administration of an autonomous republic

Article 143. The highest body of state power of an autonomous republic is the Supreme Soviet of the autonomous republic.

The adoption of the Constitution of an autonomous republic and the introduction of changes into it; the approval of state plans for economic and social development, and also of the state budget of the autonomous republic; and the formation of bodies accountable to it are carried out exclusively by the Supreme Soviet of the autonomous republic.

Laws of an autonomous republic are adopted by the Supreme Soviet of the autonomous republic.

Article 144. The Supreme Soviet of an autonomous republic elects the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the autonomous republic and forms the Council of Ministers of the autonomous republic - the Government of the autonomous republic.

Chapter 19. Local bodies of state power and administration

Article 145. The bodies of state power in krais, oblasts, autonomous oblasts, autonomous okrugs, districts, cities, city districts, settlements, and rural population centers are the corresponding Soviets of People's Deputies.

Article 146. Local Soviets of People's Deputies decide all questions of local significance, proceeding from the interests of the whole state and the interests of the citizens living on the territory of the Soviet, carry out the decisions of higher state bodies, direct the activity of lower Soviets of People's Deputies, participate in the discussion of questions of republican and all-union significance, and submit their proposals on them.

Local Soviets of People's Deputies direct on their territory state, economic, and social-cultural construction; approve plans for economic and social development and the local budget; exercise direction of the state bodies, enterprises, institutions, and organizations subordinate to them; ensure observance of laws, the protection of state and public order and the rights of citizens; and promote the strengthening of the country's defense capability.

Article 147. Within the limits of their powers, local Soviets of People's Deputies ensure comprehensive economic and social development in their territory; exercise control over compliance with legislation by enterprises, institutions and organizations of higher subordination located in that territory; coordinate and control their activity in the field of land use, nature protection, construction, use of labor resources, production of consumer goods, social, cultural, consumer and other services for the population.

Article 148. Local Soviets of People's Deputies adopt decisions within the limits of the powers granted to them by the legislation of the USSR, a union and an autonomous republic. Decisions of local Soviets are binding for execution by all enterprises, institutions and organizations located in the territory of the Soviet, as well as by officials and citizens.

Article 149. The executive and administrative bodies of local Soviets of People's Deputies are the executive committees elected by them from among the deputies.

Executive committees report not less than once a year to the Soviets that elected them, as well as at meetings of labor collectives and at the place of residence of citizens.

Article 150. Executive committees of local Soviets of People's Deputies are directly accountable both to the Soviet that elected them and to the higher executive and administrative body.

VII. Justice, arbitration and procuratorial supervision

Chapter 20. Court and arbitration

Article 151. Justice in the USSR is administered only by the court.

In the USSR there function the Supreme Court of the USSR, the Supreme Courts of the union republics, the Supreme Courts of the autonomous republics, krai, oblast, city courts, courts of autonomous oblasts, courts of autonomous okrugs, district (city) people's courts, as well as military tribunals in the Armed Forces.

Article 152. All courts in the USSR are formed on the principles of electivity of judges and people's assessors.

People's judges of district (city) people's courts are elected by the citizens of the district (city) on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot for a term of five years. People's assessors of district (city) people's courts are elected at meetings of citizens at their place of work or residence by open vote for a term of two and a half years.

Higher courts are elected by the corresponding Soviets of People's Deputies for a term of five years.

Judges of military tribunals are elected by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR for a term of five years, and people's assessors - by meetings of servicemen for a term of two and a half years.

Judges and people's assessors are accountable to the electors or to the bodies that elected them, report to them and may be recalled by them in the procedure established by law.

Article 153. The Supreme Court of the USSR is the highest judicial body of the USSR and exercises supervision over the judicial activity of the courts of the USSR, as well as of the courts of the union republics within the limits established by law.

The Supreme Court of the USSR is elected by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR consisting of the Chairman, his deputies, members and people's assessors. The chairmen of the Supreme Courts of the union republics are members of the Supreme Court of the USSR ex officio.

The organization and procedure of activity of the Supreme Court of the USSR are determined by the Law on the Supreme Court of the USSR.

Article 154. Consideration of civil and criminal cases in all courts is carried out collegially; in a court of first instance - with the participation of people's assessors. People's assessors in the administration of justice enjoy all the rights of a judge.

Article 155. Judges and people's assessors are independent and subordinate only to the law.

Article 156. Justice in the USSR is administered on the principles of equality of citizens before the law and the court.

Article 157. The examination of cases in all courts is open. Hearing of cases in a closed session of the court is permitted only in cases established by law, with observance in this case of all the rules of court procedure.

Article 158. The accused is ensured the right to defense.

Article 159. Court proceedings are conducted in the language of the union or autonomous republic, autonomous oblast, autonomous okrug or in the language of the majority of the population of the given locality. Persons participating in the case who do not know the language in which the court proceedings are conducted are ensured the right to full familiarization with the materials of the case, participation in court actions through an interpreter and the right to speak in court in their native language.

Article 160. No one may be found guilty of committing a crime, or subjected to criminal punishment, otherwise than by a court verdict and in accordance with the law.

Article 161. For the provision of legal assistance to citizens and organizations there function colleges of advocates. In cases provided for by legislation, legal assistance to citizens is provided free of charge.

The organization and procedure of activity of the advocacy are determined by the legislation of the USSR and the union republics.

Article 162. In court proceedings in civil and criminal cases, the participation of representatives of public organizations and labor collectives is permitted.

Article 163. Resolution of economic disputes between enterprises, institutions and organizations is carried out by bodies of state arbitration within the limits of their competence.

The organization and procedure of activity of bodies of state arbitration are determined by the Law on State Arbitration in the USSR.

Chapter 21. Procurator's office

Article 164. Supreme supervision over the precise and uniform execution of laws by all ministries, state committees and departments, enterprises, institutions and organizations, executive and administrative bodies of local Soviets of People's Deputies, collective farms, cooperative and other public organizations, officials, as well as citizens is entrusted to the Procurator General of the USSR and the procurators subordinate to him.

Article 165. The Procurator General of the USSR is appointed by the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, is responsible to it and accountable to it, and in the period between sessions of the Supreme Soviet - to the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR, to which he is accountable.

Article 166. Procurators of the union republics, autonomous republics, krais, oblasts and autonomous oblasts are appointed by the Procurator General of the USSR. Procurators of autonomous okrugs, district and city procurators are appointed by the procurators of the union republics and confirmed by the Procurator General of the USSR.

Article 167. The term of office of the Procurator General of the USSR and of all lower procurators is five years.

Article 168. Bodies of the procurator's office exercise their powers independently of any local bodies whatsoever, being subordinate only to the Procurator General of the USSR.

The organization and procedure of the activities of the bodies of the procurator's office are determined by the Law on the Procurator's Office of the USSR.

VIII. Emblem, flag, anthem and capital of the USSR

Article 169. The State Emblem of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics consists of an image of a sickle and hammer against the background of the globe, in the rays of the sun and framed by ears of grain, with the inscription in the languages of the union republics: "Workers of all countries, unite!". At the top of the emblem is a five-pointed star.

Article 170. The State Flag of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics consists of a red rectangular panel with an image in its upper corner, at the staff, of a golden sickle and hammer and above them a red five-pointed star framed by a golden border. The ratio of the width of the flag to its length is 1:2.

Article 171. The State Anthem of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is approved by the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR.

Article 172. The capital of the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics is the city of Moscow.

IX. Effect of the USSR Constitution and procedure for its amendment

Article 173. The USSR Constitution has the highest legal force. All laws and other acts of state bodies are issued on the basis of and in accordance with the USSR Constitution.

Article 174. Amendment of the USSR Constitution is carried out by a decision of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR adopted by a majority of not less than two thirds of the total number of deputies of each of its chambers.