The constitution of Bahrain was adopted in 2002. It established a bicameral parliament consisting of an elected lower house, the Council of Representatives, and an appointed upper house, the Consultative Council. The king has the power to dissolve parliament, appoint and dismiss the prime minister and cabinet, and veto legislation.
The government of Bahrain is divided into three branches: the executive, the legislative, and the judicial. The executive branch is headed by the prime minister, who is appointed by the king. The prime minister and cabinet are responsible for the day-to-day administration of the country.
The legislative branch is responsible for making laws. The Council of Representatives is elected by Bahraini citizens over the age of 20. The Consultative Council is appointed by the king.
The judicial branch is responsible for interpreting the law and resolving disputes. The courts in Bahrain are independent and impartial.
Bahrain is a member of the United Nations, the Arab League, and the Organization of Islamic Cooperation.