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Semester 3: CORE COURSE VIII MODERN POLITICAL SYSTEMS UK, USA, FRANCE AND CHINA
Parliamentary and Presidential Forms of Government
Parliamentary and Presidential Forms of Government
Parliamentary and presidential forms of government are two main systems of governance found worldwide. They differ significantly in structure, function, and the balance of power.
In a parliamentary system, the executive branch derives its legitimacy from the legislature and is accountable to it. The head of government, typically known as the prime minister, is usually a member of the legislature.
Encourages cooperation between branches; less potential for deadlock; can lead to quicker legislation.
Potential for less stability; possibility of frequent changes in leadership and policy direction.
A presidential system features a separation of powers among the executive, legislative, and judicial branches. The president is elected separately from the legislative body and holds significant powers.
Stability in leadership; clear separation of powers; direct accountability to the electorate.
Potential for deadlock between executive and legislature; heightened political partisanship.
Parliamentary systems promote collaboration and reduce conflict but can lead to instability, while presidential systems provide stability and clarity at the cost of possible political stalemate.
The UK exemplifies a parliamentary system, while the USA exemplifies a presidential system. France has a hybrid system blending features of both.
Both systems have unique advantages and limitations. The effectiveness of either system often depends on specific historical, cultural, and social contexts within a country.
British Constitution: Crown, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary
British Constitution: Crown, Prime Minister, Parliament, Judiciary
Crown
The Crown represents the monarchy in the UK, serving as a symbol of the state and continuity. It has various ceremonial roles, including the State Opening of Parliament and granting royal assent to bills. The Crown's powers are largely symbolic and exercised in accordance with constitutional conventions.
Prime Minister
The Prime Minister is the head of government in the UK, responsible for running the country and making policy decisions. The Prime Minister is typically the leader of the majority party in the House of Commons and has the authority to appoint members of the Cabinet. The position involves significant influence over the legislative agenda and government operations.
Parliament
Parliament is the supreme legislative body in the UK, consisting of two houses: the House of Commons and the House of Lords. It is responsible for making and passing laws, scrutinizing the government, and representing public interests. The relationship between Parliament and the Prime Minister is crucial, as the government must maintain the confidence of the Commons to remain in power.
Judiciary
The Judiciary in the UK is independent and responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring justice. It includes various levels of courts, with the Supreme Court being the highest. The Judiciary protects individual rights and checks the powers of the government, ensuring that laws are enforced fairly and impartially.
American Constitution: President, Congress, Judiciary
American Constitution: President, Congress, Judiciary
The Role of the President
The President serves as the head of state and government, responsible for enforcing laws, conducting foreign policy, and serving as commander-in-chief of the armed forces. The President also has the power to veto legislation, appoint federal officials, and grant pardons.
Structure of Congress
Congress is bicameral, consisting of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The House has 435 members, elected for two-year terms, while the Senate has 100 members, with each state represented by two senators serving six-year terms. Congress is responsible for making federal laws, controlling spending, and representing the electorate.
Judiciary and Judicial Review
The Judiciary interprets the law and ensures that laws are consistent with the Constitution. The Supreme Court is the highest court and has the power of judicial review, allowing it to invalidate laws and executive actions that are unconstitutional. Lower courts handle most cases and are responsible for applying the law.
Checks and Balances
The Constitution establishes a system of checks and balances among the three branches of government. Each branch has specific powers to limit the others, ensuring that no single branch becomes too powerful. For example, Congress can override a presidential veto, and the Supreme Court can declare legislative acts unconstitutional.
Federalism
The American Constitution creates a federal system of government, dividing powers between the national and state governments. While the national government has specific enumerated powers, states retain powers not delegated to the federal government, allowing for a balance of governance.
French Constitution: Executive, Parliament, Judiciary
French Constitution: Executive, Parliament, Judiciary
Executive Branch
The executive branch in France is headed by the President, who is elected by popular vote for a five-year term. The President has significant powers, including appointing the Prime Minister, presiding over the Council of Ministers, and being the commander of the armed forces. The Prime Minister is responsible for government administration and can be dismissed by the President.
Parliament
The French Parliament is bicameral, consisting of the National Assembly and the Senate. The National Assembly has 577 members, elected directly by citizens for five years. The Senate has 348 members, elected indirectly by local officials, with a term of six years. Parliament's role includes making laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive.
Judiciary
The judiciary in France is independent and consists of various courts including civil, criminal, and administrative courts. The Constitutional Council ensures that laws comply with the Constitution. The judiciary also interprets laws and resolves disputes, safeguarding citizens' rights and liberties.
Constitution of China: President, National People's Congress, Party System
Constitution of China: President, National People's Congress, Party System
President of China
The President of the People's Republic of China serves as the head of state. The role is largely ceremonial but is influential in terms of political leadership. The President is elected by the National People's Congress and may serve for a term of five years, renewable. The position is often held concurrently with the General Secretary of the Communist Party, consolidating power within the party structure.
National People's Congress
The National People's Congress (NPC) is the highest organ of state power in China. Its primary functions include enacting laws, approving the budget, and electing key officials such as the President and the State Council. The NPC meets annually, but its decisions are generally influenced by the Communist Party of China, which leads to questions about its autonomy and effectiveness.
Party System
China is a single-party state led by the Communist Party of China (CPC). Other political parties exist but are largely regulated and must accept the CPC's leadership. The party system is characterized by the principle of democratic centralism, where party decisions are made centrally and are binding on all members. Political pluralism is not permitted, and dissent against the party's policies is often suppressed.
