A government where citizens elect people to represent them and make laws on their behalf, instead of always voting directly on laws and other government actions.

The chief officer of the executive branch of a government, often presiding over a cabinet; usually called Prime Minister (in a parliamentary system) or President (in a presidential system).

plural of head of government

plural of branch of government

A part of a whole governing body which is assigned specific powers; examples include the legislature, the judiciary, the executive, the military, and, in non-secular states, the church.

The governance of a region by its own populace; autonomy. / (dated) Personal self-control.

plural of shadow government

A government that is prepared to take control in response to certain events, especially one made up of the leadership of the largest opposition party in parliament which would assume control should the ruling party be displaced in elections.

plural of seat of government

The location that is the centre of authority to govern; usually the capital city of an area.