Parlamenta

Parlamenta is a term that can function as either a plural form of the word for a legislative body in certain non-English languages, or as a generic reference to parliaments in those linguistic contexts. In English, the corresponding terms are parliament (singular) and parliaments (plural). The root is from Latin parliamentum, via Old French parlement, tracing to medieval deliberative assemblies.

Parliaments are representative institutions tasked with making laws, debating policy, and overseeing the government. They may be unicameral or bicameral, with members elected or otherwise selected according to national constitutional rules. Typical functions include drafting and passing legislation, approving budgets, ratifying treaties, and holding the executive to account through inquiries, votes of no confidence, and committee work.

Structure varies by country: a parliament may be composed of a single chamber or two houses, each with its own leadership, committees, and procedures. Leadership often includes a presiding officer (speaker or president of the parliament) and party leaders who coordinate business and legislative agendas. The legislative process generally involves bill introduction, committee consideration, debate, amendments, and votes, followed by enactment and, in some cases, judicial review for constitutionality.

The term “parlamenta” does not denote a single international body; instead, it may appear in languages that form the plural of parliament or be used in proper names within regional or historical contexts. See also Parliament and Legislature.