INTRODUCTION

The Azores archipelago, comprising the islands of Santa Maria, São Miguel, Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico, Faial, Flores and Corvo, has its own political and administrative system, based on its geographical, economic, social and cultural characteristics, as well as on the aspirations for autonomy that have emerged throughout history[1].

For this reason, the Azores archipelago is an Autonomous Region, whose own political and administrative system has been enshrined in the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic since 1974.

The Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, together with the Regional Government, are the Governing Bodies of the Region[2].

As stated in Article 11 of the Political and Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of the Azores, the Regional Legislative Assembly is the representative and legislative body of the Region, and is also responsible for overseeing government action.

The Assembly has political, legislative and regulatory powers and conducts its business both in Plenary, which meets during at least eight legislative periods per legislative session, and in Committees, which meet between legislative periods. Both may meet in extraordinary session when warranted.

The Assembly is made up of 57 members, elected every 4 years (the period corresponding to a legislative term) by universal, direct and secret suffrage, in accordance with the principle of proportional representation and the electoral law[3].

Thus, deriving its legitimacy from direct universal suffrage, the Legislative Assembly of the Autonomous Region of the Azores represents the Azorean people, defending the democratically expressed will of its citizens, and also participates in the exercise of national political power[4].

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[1] Article 225(1) of the Constitution of the Portuguese Republic.

[2] Article 3(1) of the Political-Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.

[3] Article 12 of the Political and Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.

[4] Article 3(2) of the Political-Administrative Statute of the Autonomous Region of the Azores.

Vision

To be recognised as a fundamental and essential body within the Regional autonomous system, ensuring a plurality of views and democratic participation, while operating transparently, effectively and to the highest standards across all its areas of responsibility.

Objectives

- Enhance the Institution’s prestige and public image;

- Encourage greater public participation in parliamentary activities;

- Promote legislative and oversight activity;

- Promote the analysis of the effectiveness of legislative and regulatory measures;

- Optimise Resource Management.

Mission

Represent the values and interests of the Azorean people, exercising legislative and regulatory powers and overseeing the actions of the Regional Government.