Monarchia

Monarchia, or monarchy, is a form of government in which a sovereign ruler, the monarch, acts as head of state. In many monarchies the monarch's role is largely symbolic or constitutional, while in others it is central to political authority.

Two main varieties persist: absolute monarchies, where the monarch holds extensive or unlimited political power; and constitutional monarchies, where a constitution and elected representatives limit the monarch’s powers and where government is run by ministers.

Historically, monarchies emerged as centralized authorities to secure order, mobilize resources, and coordinate defense. In Europe, feudal structures gave way to centralized states, and the modern era saw constitutional reforms shaping modern monarchies in Britain, the Netherlands, Sweden, and beyond.

Today most monarchies are constitutional. Examples include the United Kingdom, Sweden, Japan, Canada, and Norway. Absolute monarchies remain in some states, such as Saudi Arabia and Brunei, where the monarch retains substantial policy influence. Eswatini is a kingdom with a strong monarchic role within the political system.

The monarch’s duties are typically ceremonial—supporting national unity, representing the country abroad, and presiding over cultural or religious ceremonies. In constitutional monarchies, political leadership rests with elected bodies and ministers; in absolute monarchies, the monarch may appoint or dismiss officials and shape policy.

Critics argue that hereditary rule challenges democratic legitimacy and is costly; supporters emphasize continuity, national identity, and soft power. Monarchia remains a flexible form of government that often functions as a symbolic unifying figure within a constitutional framework.