What is the formal term for a set of laws and customs governing an organization?

The correct term for a set of laws and customs governing an organization is the constitution. A constitution serves as the foundational document that outlines the principles, structures, and processes of an organization, whether it be a governmental body, a corporation, or any other formal group. It typically defines the rights and responsibilities of its members, as well as the mechanisms for decision-making and governance.

In various contexts, other terms like charter, guidelines, and statute may have relevant meanings but do not capture the comprehensive nature of a constitution. A charter generally refers to a specific document that grants rights or privileges to an organization, acting more like a legal permission slip instead of a detailed framework of governance. Guidelines are typically more informal recommendations that suggest how procedures should be carried out rather than a codified body of law. Statutes are specific laws enacted by a legislative body but do not encompass the broader rules and customs that govern an organization in its entirety. Thus, "constitution" is the most appropriate term in this context.