glossary Flashcards
(46 cards)
What is a parliamentary majority?
A situation where one party holds more than half (> 50%) of the seats in parliament
This enables the party to pass legislation without support from other parties.
What is a minority government?
A government formed by a coalition when a political party that does not have an absolute majority of seats joins gains votes from a smaller party
This often requires negotiation with other parties for support.
What is a hung parliament?
A situation where no single party gains a majority of seats in parliament
This can lead to a coalition or minority government.
What is a bill?
A proposal for new legislation presented for debate in parliament
A bill must be approved by both houses to become law.
What is the House of Representatives?
one of two houses of parliament (other being the senate)- members represent electorates
It is responsible for proposing and debating legislation.
What is the Senate?
The upper house of parliament that reviews legislation proposed by the House of Representatives
It has equal representation from states regardless of population.
What is the federal government?
The national government that oversees and governs the entire country
It is distinct from state and local governments.
What is the state government?
The government that operates at the state level, managing local affairs
Each state has its own constitution and legislative assembly.
What is local government?
The administration of a specific local area, such as a city or municipality
Local governments manage community services and regulations.
What is an electorate?
A geographical area represented by a member of parliament
Voters in an electorate elect their representatives.
What is the rule of law?
The principle that all individuals and institutions are accountable to the law
It ensures fairness and justice in society.
What is the separation of powers?
The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches
Typically includes the executive, legislative, and judicial branches.
What is democracy?
A system of government in which power is vested in the people, who rule either directly or through freely elected representatives
It emphasizes participation and equality.
What is liberal democracy?
A form of democracy that emphasizes individual rights and freedoms, rule of law, and fair elections
It combines democratic governance with the protection of civil liberties.
What is representative democracy?
A type of democracy where citizens elect representatives to make decisions on their behalf
This contrasts with direct democracy.
What is direct democracy?
A form of democracy in which people vote on policy initiatives directly
This allows citizens to have a direct say in laws and governance.
What are rights?
Entitlements or permissions usually granted by law or social norms
They protect individual freedoms and ensure justice.
What are responsibilities?
Duties or obligations that individuals are expected to fulfill within society
They often accompany rights and are essential for social order.
What is the role of the governor general?
The representative of the monarch in a parliamentary system
The governor general performs ceremonial duties and signs legislation.
What is parliament?
The supreme legislative body in a country, typically consisting of two houses
It is responsible for making and passing laws.
What is a constitutional monarchy?
A system of government in which a monarch acts as head of state within the parameters of a constitution
The monarch’s powers are limited by law.
What is the federation of states?
A union of partially self-governing states under a central government
Each state retains some degree of autonomy.
What is a constitution?
Legal document establishing rights of citizens and outlines principles & structure of government
What is the opposition?
The political party or coalition that is not in power and challenges the government
It holds the government accountable and proposes alternative policies.
