Parliamentary System

A parliamentary system is a form of government where the executive branch derives its democratic legitimacy from, and is directly accountable to, the parliament. This system is characterized by the fusion of powers between the executive and legislative branches, contrasting with the separation of powers found in a presidential system.

Structure and Function

In a parliamentary system, the head of government, often called the prime minister, is usually the leader of the political party that has the most seats in the parliament. The head of state may be a distinct figure, such as a monarch or a president, who has ceremonial duties. The roles of the head of government and head of state can vary significantly from one country to another.

Westminster System

A notable subtype of the parliamentary system is the Westminster system, named after the Palace of Westminster in London, where the Parliament of the United Kingdom meets. This system is characterized by a strong party discipline and the principle of collective ministerial responsibility, whereby ministers must publicly support all governmental decisions made in Cabinet.

Parliamentary Republic

In a parliamentary republic, the republic operates under a parliamentary system where the executive branch derives its legitimacy from the parliament and is accountable to it. This form of government is common in many European countries.

Types of Parliamentary Systems

Unitary Parliamentary Republic: A unitary state with a republican form of government, where political authority is vested in the parliament.
Semi-Parliamentary System: In this system, voters elect both members of the legislature and the executive, which may lead to a dual executive structure.
Presidential Parliamentary Republic: This form involves a president who is independent of the legislature but works within a parliamentary system framework.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages

Efficiency: The fusion of the executive and legislative branches can lead to more decisive governance, as the government is generally supported by a majority in parliament.
Accountability: The executive is directly accountable to the parliament, and by extension, to the electorate, allowing for easier removal of ineffective governments through a vote of no confidence.

Disadvantages

Instability: Governments can be unstable, particularly in cases of a minority government where no single party has an overall majority.
Reduced Checks and Balances: The fusion of powers can lead to a lack of checks and balances, which may affect the separation of powers and lead to an over-concentration of power.

Examples Around the World

Parliamentary systems can be found in various forms around the world. The United Kingdom, Canada, India, and Australia follow the Westminster model, while Germany and Italy are examples of parliamentary republics with a president as the head of state.