Parlamentoj

Parlamentoj are legislative bodies, a core component of many democratic governments. They are responsible for debating and passing laws, scrutinizing the actions of the executive branch, and representing the will of the people. The term "parliament" originates from the Old French word "parlement," meaning "discussion" or "speaking." The specific structure and powers of a parliament can vary significantly from country to country.

Most parliaments are bicameral, meaning they consist of two chambers. These are typically an upper house and a lower house. The lower house, often called a House of Commons or Assembly, usually has members elected directly by the citizenry. The upper house, which might be a Senate or House of Lords, can have members appointed or elected, and its powers can range from limited review to equal legislative authority. In unicameral systems, there is only one legislative chamber.

The primary functions of a parliament include law-making, where proposed legislation is debated, amended, and voted upon. They also hold the government accountable through mechanisms like questioning ministers, debating policy, and conducting investigations. Furthermore, parliaments play a crucial role in approving or rejecting government budgets and financial proposals. The electoral systems used to select members also differ widely, influencing the composition and representativeness of the parliament.