Parliamentary system

Definition

A parliamentary system is a form of government where the executive branch derives its legitimacy from and is directly accountable to the legislature (parliament). In this system, the head of state is usually separate from the head of government, with the latter typically being the leader of the majority party in parliament, which fosters a close relationship between the two branches of government and encourages collaboration.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. In a parliamentary system, the Prime Minister can be removed by a vote of no confidence, highlighting the accountability to parliament.
2. Legislative and executive branches are interconnected in a parliamentary system, often leading to more stable governance if a single party holds a majority.
3. Countries with parliamentary systems often experience quicker legislative processes due to the alignment of executive and legislative priorities.
4. Parliamentary systems can lead to coalition governments when no party has a clear majority, promoting negotiation and compromise among parties.
5. Common examples of countries with parliamentary systems include the United Kingdom, Canada, India, and Australia.

Review Questions

• How does the relationship between the executive and legislative branches in a parliamentary system impact governance?
  • In a parliamentary system, the executive branch is closely tied to the legislative branch since the Prime Minister and cabinet are drawn from the legislature. This interdependence allows for smoother cooperation and quicker decision-making because both branches work together towards common goals. The Prime Minister’s ability to command a majority in parliament often leads to more stable governance, as policies can be enacted with less obstruction compared to systems where branches are more separated.
• Discuss how accountability is maintained in a parliamentary system and its implications for political stability.
  • Accountability in a parliamentary system is primarily maintained through mechanisms such as votes of no confidence, which allow parliament to remove the Prime Minister if they lose support. This ensures that leaders remain responsive to legislative concerns and public opinion. While this can promote political stability by ensuring leadership aligns with parliamentary support, it can also lead to instability if governments frequently change due to shifting political alliances or lack of majority support.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of coalition governments in parliamentary systems compared to single-party majority governments.
  • Coalition governments in parliamentary systems can encourage inclusivity and representation by bringing together multiple parties, which may lead to more comprehensive policies that consider diverse viewpoints. However, they can also result in fragmented decision-making and compromise solutions that may dilute strong policy initiatives. In contrast, single-party majority governments can implement policies more decisively and efficiently but risk alienating minority opinions and reducing checks on power. The effectiveness of either approach often depends on the specific political context and the parties involved.

Related terms

Prime Minister: The head of government in a parliamentary system, responsible for running the government and making policy decisions, typically chosen from the majority party in parliament.

Vote of No Confidence: A parliamentary procedure through which the legislature can remove the Prime Minister or government from power by voting against them, showcasing accountability in the system.

Coalition Government: A government formed when no single party gains an outright majority in parliament, requiring multiple parties to collaborate and share power.