Specific features of the norms of the Constitution of the Russian Federation

Constitutional norms are the focus of this research. Analyzing separate constitutional statements, the authors pointed out a set of specific characteristics which distinguish norms of the Constitution of the Russian Federation from other legal norms. As a result of this research, a number of conclusions were made, which can be considered in the process of interpretation of constitutional norms, can be useful for the development of constitutional legislation, and allow a thorough understanding and respect of the Main Law of the Russian Federation. The norms of Chapter 1 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation have a constituent character because they do not specify precise rules of behavior but they express and integrate generally valid, moral, political and ideological values into legal matter. Such features as fundamental nature and stability in varying degrees of manifestation are peculiar to all norms of the Constitution. The fundamental nature is revealed in the securing of essential statements; stability describes the extended efficiency of the constitutional norms and its permanence during a long period of time or rare enforced changing. The constitutional norms involve the most challenging purposes and goals of public and state development. They are not concentrated in one chapter, but they fill all the statements of the Constitution of the Russian Federation; that is why to reveal these norms is possible by means of a detailed study of the Constitution. The authors come to a conclusion that the legal efficacy of the constitutional norms is diverse. They propose a tri-level hierarchy of norms, which is arranged into chapters: (1) Chapter 1 - basic principles of constitutional system; (2) Chapter 2 and Chapter 9 - human and civil rights and freedoms along with the way of adjustment of the statements of the Constitution of the Russian Federation; (3) Chapters 3-8 - the other statements of the Constitution. Besides two ways of adjustment of the Constitution of the Russian Federation expressly stated in Chapter 9 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, the authors point out special aspects of adjustment of Article 65 of the Constitution of the Russian Federation, which de jure is submitted to the rules of making amendments, but de facto it has a simplified procedure of adjustment. The constitutional norms have a general character, and often they are deprived of particularities, formulated in an abstract way. The norms of the Constitution have a special narrative style that in particular cases expresses emotion or ideological implication. The constitutional norms have a high potential, which allows them to be essential during a long period of time. Their relevance is also provided for by their competent interpretation by the state's legislative and judicial authorities. The authors declare no conflicts of interests.

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