Prime Minister

A prime minister is the head of a country's council of ministers. He or she leads the executive branch on a day-to-day basis: appoints ministers, coordinates the work of the ministries, and directs government policy. The title is also written as Prime Minister.

This office is most common in parliamentary and semi-presidential systems. In most cases, a prime minister holds office only as long as he or she retains the confidence of parliament; if that confidence is withdrawn, the government may resign or a new election may be held. In presidential systems, such as that of the United States, this office generally does not exist.

Selection

The standard practice is for the head of state—a monarch or president—to appoint the person most likely to command a majority in parliament. When one party alone holds a majority, the leader of that party takes office. When no party has a majority, a coalition (a government formed by two or more parties) or a minority government relying on outside support may be formed. Many countries require a vote of confidence from parliament before the government can begin its work.

Powers and limitations

The powers of a prime minister vary from country to country. It is common for a prime minister to have the following: presiding over meetings of the council of ministers, distributing ministerial portfolios, and representing the government domestically and internationally. Limitations stem from the constitution, the constitutional court, parliament, and—in semi-presidential systems—the president, who typically shares control of security and foreign affairs. Each system has mechanisms for removal (such as a vote of no confidence); some countries require the presentation of a successor candidate.

Terminology

Different languages use different titles for this office: in English 'Prime Minister', in French 'Premier ministre', in Italian 'Primo ministro', in Turkish 'Başbakan', in Arabic 'رئيس الوزراء' (Head of Ministers). Some countries use titles specific to their history, such as 'Chancellor' in Germany and Austria, or 'Taoiseach' (Chief) in Ireland. When a country has two executive heads, 'head of government' typically refers to the prime minister, while 'head of state' refers to the president or monarch.