key term - Head of government

Definition

The head of government is the individual who oversees the executive branch of a country, responsible for implementing laws and running the day-to-day operations of the government. In different political systems, this role might be fulfilled by a Prime Minister, Chancellor, or President, depending on whether the system is parliamentary, presidential, or semi-presidential.

Related terms

Executive Branch:

The part of government responsible for implementing and enforcing laws created by the legislative body.

Parliamentary System:

A democratic form of government where the executive power is derived from the legislature (parliament), with the head of government typically being a prime minister.

Presidential System:

A system of government where an elected president serves as both head of state and head of government, separate from the legislative body