The Second Ulsyn Ikh Khural in Mongolia's Transition

Abstract

The democratic movement that took place in Ulaanbaatar in late 1989 and late 1990 has brought rapid changes to the Mongolian government in the past seven years. A democratic constitution that took effect in 1992 marked the end of a country ruled by communist ideology and paved the way for Mongolia to pursue its goal of democracy. According to the constitution, state power has been transferred to the Ulsyn Ikh Khural (UIK, National Great Assembly) from the head of the parry; thus, any party that controls the majority seats in this legislative body gains ruling power. The first UIK elections were held in July 1992, and during its first four-year term, the assembly devoted itself to making new laws and reviving old laws in accordance with Mongolia’s political transition. In June 1996, the second set of UIK elections took place, and in 1996-97, it held two sessions in the fall and spring, further revising old laws and passing new laws and proclamations. In this crucial transition time, its role remains crucial, and its activities deserve great attention.