Parliament

A parliament is a national body composed of representatives whose primary functions are to enact laws, ratify government budgets, and oversee the execution of policy. The term originally derives from French and means 'discussion', reflecting the principle that decisions are reached through debate and voting rather than decree from a single person.

Members of parliament are usually elected through general elections held at fixed intervals, though in some cases they may be appointed through hereditary succession or regional delegation. The powers of parliament vary across different systems of government: in parliamentary systems, the executive emerges from and remains accountable to parliament, whereas in presidential systems parliament is a separate branch of government.

Core functions

Legislation: the proposal, debate, and passage of laws. Budget: the approval of taxation and government expenditure, historically the most significant source of parliamentary power. Oversight: questioning of ministers, establishment of investigative committees, and occasionally the ability to remove government through no-confidence motions. Representation: advocating for the interests of constituents.

Unicameral and bicameral systems

A parliament may be unicameral or bicameral. In bicameral systems, the lower house typically derives from direct popular election based on population, while the upper house represents regions, federal units, or particular groups. The purpose of the second chamber is to provide review and greater deliberation on legislation before it is passed.

Working procedures

Business is conducted through plenary sessions and specialized committees (for example, finance or security committees). Committees undertake detailed examination of proposed legislation before it comes before the full house. Members typically organize along party lines, with government and opposition blocs. Standing orders establish quorum requirements, voting procedures, and speaking time.