Monarchies

A monarchy is a form of government in which a state is headed by a monarch—a king, queen, emperor, or empress. The position is usually hereditary, passing within a royal family, but some monarchies employ elective or non-dynastic arrangements. Monarchies can be classified by how much political power the monarch wields; most modern states place practical authority in elected bodies and appointed ministers, while the monarch serves symbolic or ceremonial duties.

Absolute monarchies concentrate executive power in the monarch, who may rule by decree. They are rare in the modern era; contemporary examples with substantial authority exist in a few states where the ruler directs policy directly. In contrast, constitutional or parliamentary monarchies separate head of state and head of government; the monarch's duties are largely ceremonial, and real political power rests with elected legislatures and ministers. Common modern examples include the United Kingdom, Sweden, Japan, the Netherlands, and Canada.

Elective monarchies are those in which the sovereign is chosen from among a group of candidates, sometimes by an assembly. A modern example is Malaysia's rotating constitutional monarchy, where the king is elected for a term from among ruling rulers. Historically, monarchies were dominant worldwide, but constitutional and democratic reforms shifted many toward limited monarchical roles.

Succession rules—often hereditary and codified—affect stability and legitimacy. Reforms have, in some cases, restricted dynastic power or clarified succession. The monarch may function as a symbol of national identity and continuity, or as a neutral figure within a constitutional framework.

Critics argue monarchies entrench privilege or impose costs; supporters emphasize tradition, cohesion, and nonpartisan leadership. The political influence of monarchies varies widely today, reflecting local histories, institutions, and public attitudes.