Népviselet

Népviselet, meaning "people's representation" in Hungarian political discourse, refers to the system in which the sovereign power of the people is exercised through elected representatives. It describes the body and the principle by which citizens delegate authority to legislators who act on their behalf.

Origin and usage: The term combines nép (people) and képviselet (representation) and is used in constitutional and political contexts to denote the representative layer of government. In modern Hungary, as in many democracies, népviselet mainly corresponds to the national legislature, the assembly of elected members.

Role and characteristics: A népviselet is typically elected and accountable to voters. Its core functions include making laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive. Electoral rules—such as proportional, majoritarian, or mixed systems—aim to shape the composition of népviselet to reflect the electorate's varied preferences.

Historical note: The concept has evolved through Hungary's constitutional history—from earlier constitutional arrangements to contemporary parliamentary democracy—yet it remains the central mechanism by which the public exercises political representation and confidence in institutions is maintained.

See also: Parliament, Elections, Representation, Nép (people).