What Is the Relationship Between the Shura Council and the Basic Law of Governance?

The Basic Law of Governance in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia states that governance in the Kingdom is based on justice, Shura, and equality in accordance with Islamic Sharia.

The Shura Council expresses opinions on general state policies referred to it by the Prime Minister. The Shura Council Law stipulates that the council has the authority to discuss the general plan for economic and social development, provide opinions on it, study laws, regulations, treaties, international agreements, and concessions, and propose what it deems appropriate regarding them. The council also interprets laws, discusses annual reports submitted by ministries and other government agencies, and proposes recommendations concerning them. The Shura Council’s decisions are submitted to the King, who decides which of them are referred to the Council of Ministers.