Senado

Senado is the term used in Spanish and Portuguese-speaking countries to denote the upper chamber of a bicameral national legislature. In most cases, the senate serves as the upper house, distinct from the lower house which generally represents the population directly, while the senate may represent regional units such as states or provinces. The concept derives from the Latin senatus, from which the Roman Senate traces its name.

The senate is often characterized by longer terms, smaller membership, and procedures intended to provide stability and review. Functions typically include reviewing and approving legislation, ratifying treaties, and confirming key appointments; in many systems the senate also has the authority to conduct investigations, oversee the executive, or initiate impeachment proceedings. The exact powers, composition, and method of selection vary widely: some senates are elected directly by voters, others are chosen by subnational bodies, and some combine both methods. In some countries the senate has exclusive legislative powers or a power of amendment.

Examples of national senates include Spain's Senado, Mexico's Senado de la República, Argentina's Senado de la Nación, Brazil's Senado Federal, and Chile's Senado. The precise role of the senate is determined by each country's constitution and legal framework, and in some places the body has undergone reforms to reflect changes in representation and political practice.