Unit 2 AP comp. gov.

authoritarian regime

A system of government characterized by strong central power and limited political freedoms. In an authoritarian regime, individual freedoms are subordinate to the state, and political opposition is often restricted or suppressed.

autonomous region

A subnational entity that has a degree of self-governance and independence from the central government, often with its own administrative powers.

bicameral

referring to a legislative body that has two separate chambers or houses, such as a Senate and House of Representatives.

bureaucracy

A system of government or management characterized by strict procedures and hierarchies, often involving many departments and officials.

cabinet government

A system where the executive branch is dependent on the support of the legislature, often with a prime minister and a council of ministers.

central committee

A key decision-making body in a political party, especially in communist systems, responsible for guiding party policy and actions.

civil service

A body of government employees selected for their expertise and merit, responsible for implementing policies and administering public services.

civil society

The aggregate of non-governmental organizations and institutions that represent the interests and will of the citizens. It includes various groups such as charities, community organizations, and advocacy groups that operate independently from the government.

clientelism

A political system where goods and services are exchanged for political support, often involving a patron-client relationship between politicians and voters. It can lead to corruption and undermine democratic processes.

competitive parties

Political parties that compete for power in elections, offering voters distinct choices and policies, essential for a functioning democracy.

confederate State

A union of sovereign states that delegate certain powers to a central authority while retaining a high degree of independence. This system often emphasizes the autonomy of member states over the authority of the central government.

congress of the union

A legislative body composed of representatives from different states or regions, typically with the authority to make laws and govern on behalf of its member states.

constitutional monarchy

A form of government in which a monarch acts as the head of state within the parameters set by a constitution, which may be written or unwritten, allowing for the distribution of powers between the monarchy and an elected body.

dominant party

A political system where a single party dominates the political landscape, often controlling the government and limiting the competition from other parties.

Duma

The legislative body in Russia, established to provide representation and legislative authority, often characterized by limited powers and significant influence from the executive branch.

Federal State

A political entity characterized by a union of partially self-governing regions or states under a central government, where power is divided between national and regional authorities.

First Past the Post

is an electoral system where the candidate with the most votes in a constituency wins, regardless of whether they achieve an absolute majority.

Fusion of Powers

Guardian Council

House of Commons

House of Lords

Hung Parliament

Islamic Consultative Assembly

Judicial Review

Minority Party Masslahat

Mixed electoral Systems

Multiparty systems

National Assembly

National Peoples Congress

NGOs