# Instrument Hierarchy

IBQMI Knowledge Graph · node `instrument_hierarchy` · type `structural_rule` · cluster Instruments · https://www.ibqmi.com/graph/instrument_hierarchy

> In descending order of authority: The AI Constitution, the Board Statute, canonical supplements issued by the Hybrid Board, and delegated protocols and operating procedures. No lower instrument may contradict a higher one; non-derogable constitutional articles prevail over program rules.

## Canonical definition
The instrument hierarchy is the descending order of authority within the framework: The AI Constitution, the Board Statute, canonical supplements issued by the Hybrid Board, and delegated protocols and operating procedures that implement the foregoing.

## Why this node exists
Readers and machines need to know which text wins. The hierarchy decides it, together with the rule that non-derogable constitutional articles prevail over program rules.

## Operational meaning
No delegated protocol may contradict a higher-order instrument. Program statutes and annexes for Sentinel or Shared Resonance Cities cannot create new rights or dilute constitutional protections; they specify how protections are enacted in a setting. Where the Statute intersects with domestic or international law, those prevail.

## What this does not mean
The hierarchy does not rank the supplements above the annexes in normative force; supplements explain, annexes operate. It does not place any IBQMI instrument above national law.

## Canonical facts
- Order: (a) Constitution, (b) Board Statute, (c) canonical supplements, (d) delegated protocols and operating procedures (Statute §1.2)
- Non-derogation: non-derogable constitutional articles prevail over program rules (Hybrid Board page)
- External law: domestic and international law prevail where they intersect (Board Statute clarifications)

## Structural relationships

- Instrument Hierarchy governs [Sentinel Liaison Protocol](https://www.ibqmi.com/graph/sentinel_liaison_protocol)
- Instrument Hierarchy governs [Constitutional Supplements](https://www.ibqmi.com/graph/constitutional_supplements)

## Sources

- [Board Statute §1.2](https://www.ibqmi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Board_Statute_public.pdf)
- [Hybrid Board — Bounded Powers](https://www.ibqmi.com/board/)
- [Sentinel Liaison Protocol §9.2](https://www.ibqmi.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/Sentinel_Liaison_Protocol_v0.8_public.pdf)