Oneparty

One-party system, or one-party state, is a form of government in which a single political party dominates political power and other parties are either prohibited or unable to achieve meaningful competition. In de jure one-party states, the constitution or legal framework designates one party as the ruling party and restricts opposition political activity. In de facto systems, multiple parties may exist but face legal or practical barriers that prevent them from challenging the incumbents.

Key features commonly associated with one-party systems include centralized control over government institutions, a party organization that penetrates the state, and limited or controlled access to media and civil society. Elections, if held, typically involve either single-party lists or tightly managed competition with no realistic path to power for challengers. The judiciary and security services often operate under party direction.

Countries most often cited as examples of formal one-party states include the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of Cuba, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea. Some states exhibit dominant-party arrangements rather than strict one-party rule, in which other parties exist but have limited influence (for example, Singapore’s long-standing dominance by the PAP).

Debates about one-party systems focus on stability and long-term planning versus political accountability, pluralism, and individual rights. Supporters argue that one party can implement coherent policies efficiently; critics emphasize risks of repression, stagnation, and corruption.