Overview of the Head of Government
In a parliamentary system, the head of government is the prime minister or equivalent leader, such as a chancellor. This individual is responsible for directing the executive branch and implementing policies. Unlike presidential systems, the head of government is drawn from the legislature and must maintain the confidence of parliament to remain in office.
Key Principles and Selection Process
The head of government is typically the leader of the majority party or coalition in the parliament. They are appointed by the head of state but derive authority from parliamentary support. This system emphasizes fusion of powers, where the executive is accountable to the legislature through mechanisms like votes of no confidence.
Practical Example: The United Kingdom
In the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister serves as the head of government. For instance, after a general election, the leader of the party with the most seats in the House of Commons, such as the Conservative or Labour leader, is invited by the monarch to form a government. This leader, like Boris Johnson in 2019, then appoints a cabinet to execute national policies.
Importance and Real-World Applications
The head of government in parliamentary systems ensures responsive leadership, as they can be removed if they lose parliamentary support, promoting stability and accountability. This structure is applied in countries like Canada, India, and Germany, facilitating efficient policy-making while balancing executive power with legislative oversight.