Parliamentary democracy

Definition

A parliamentary democracy is a form of government where the executive branch (head of government) is accountable to the legislative branch (parliament), and the head of state is separate from the head of government.

Analogy

Imagine a school where the principal (head of state) represents the school and its values, while the student council president (head of government) runs day-to-day operations and makes decisions on behalf of the students. The principal holds a symbolic role, while the student council president has real power.

Related terms

Head of State: The head of state represents a country symbolically and ceremonially, often serving as a unifying figure for its citizens.

Head of Government: The head of government is responsible for running day-to-day operations, making policy decisions, and implementing laws.

Presidential Democracy: In contrast to parliamentary democracy, in a presidential democracy, there is no separation between the head of state and head of government. The president serves as both roles.