Qatar is a constitutional hereditary monarchy officially governed as a semi- constitutional monarchy with an authoritarian character. The country is ruled by the Emir from the Al Thani family, who holds extensive executive and legislative powers, assisted by the Council of Ministers. The Emir is the head of state and government and appoints the prime minister and cabinet. The legislative authority is vested in a Consultative Assembly (Shura Council), which is partially elected but holds limited powers. Political parties are banned, and political rights are significantly restricted. The legal system operates under Sharia law alongside civil law. The government system is based on the separation of powers but with strong dominance by the Emir and ruling family.
Key Features of Qatar's Government
- Constitutional hereditary monarchy with the Emir as head of state and government.
- Executive power centralized in the Emir and Council of Ministers.
- Legislative power held by a partially elected Consultative Assembly with limited authority.
- Political parties are banned; elections are limited in scope and power.
- Sharia law is the main source of legislation.
- Strong authoritarian traits, with the Emir controlling most government branches.
Qatar describes its system as based on separation of powers and collaboration, but in practice, it is tightly controlled by the ruling Al Thani family with the Emir holding supreme authority.
