Politics of the Federated States of Micronesia

The politics of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) takes place in a framework of a federal parliamentary representative democratic republic. The President of the Federated States of Micronesia is both head of state and head of government. Executive power is exercised by the government, while legislative power is vested in both the government and parliament. The judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

The internal workings of the FSM are governed by the 1979 constitution, which guarantees fundamental human rights and establishes a separation of governmental powers. The Federation is in free association with the United States; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 3 November 1986.

Executive branch

The president and the vice president are elected by Congress from among the four senators-at-large for four-year terms. The president is both the chief of state and head of government. Their congressional seats are then filled by special elections. The president and vice president are supported by an appointed cabinet.

Legislative branch

The Congress has fourteen non-partisan members, ten members elected for a two year term in single-seat constituencies and four members elected for a four-year term by proportional representation.

Political parties and elections

A head of state (the President) and a legislature are elected on a national level. As far as available, at the last elections, 8 March 2005, only non-partisans have been elected. The president is elected for a four-year term by the parliament. There are no political parties in Micronesia, though they are not banned. Political allegiances depend mainly on family and island-related factors.

Judicial branch

The judiciary is headed by the Supreme Court, which is divided into trial and appellate divisions. The president appoints judges with the advice and consent of the Congress. Andon Amaraich was Chief Justice of the Supreme Court until his death in January 2010.

Administrative divisions

The FSM is divided in four states: Chuuk (Truk), Kosrae, Pohnpei, and Yap. Each has its own constitution, elected legislature, and governor. The state governments maintain considerable power, particularly regarding the implementation of budgetary policies.

International organization participation

AsDB, ESCAP, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat, IOC, ITU, OPCW, PIF, Sparteca, SPC, UN, UNCTAD, WHO, WMO

See also

• Federated States of Micronesia

External links

Government

• Government of the Federated States of Micronesia
• Adam Carr's Election Archive