The Advisory Council or Majlis al-Shura
The Advisory Council met for the first time on the 15th of May 1972. The Council constitutes members who must be sensible, wise, and competent representing one of the social sectors of the country. The new constitution, which came into force on 8th June 2004, provides for a 45-member Consultative Council, or Majlis al-Shura; the public would elect two-thirds of the Majlis al-Shura; the emir would then appoint the remaining members. It debates all political, administrative, economic, legislative, legal and other issues of public interest submitted by the Government. Before making his final decision, the Emir usually takes into consideration the Council's views and recommendations.
The Advisory Council has the following five permanent committees:
- Legal and Legislative Affairs Committee
- Financial and Economic Affairs Committee
- Public Services Committee
- Internal and External Affairs Committee
- Cultural Affairs and Information Committee
