What is the Constitution of Canada?

The Constitution of Canada is fundamentally a set of rules and principles that outlines how the country operates, establishing the framework for governance, the distribution of powers between federal and provincial levels, and the rights of citizens. It encompasses several key documents, including the Constitution Act, 1867, and the Constitution Act, 1982, which introduced the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This framework not only sets out the functions and responsibilities of governmental bodies but also embeds fundamental rights and freedoms that apply to all Canadians. The comprehensive nature of the Constitution allows it to guide all aspects of governance and legal interpretation in Canada, which is why it is best described as a set of rules and principles governing the country.