Unicameral

Unicameral refers to a legislature composed of a single chamber. In a unicameral system, all legislative responsibilities—debate, amendment, and voting—occur in one body, as opposed to bicameral systems that have two chambers, typically an upper house and a lower house. Proponents argue that unicameral legislatures can be more transparent and efficient, reducing duplication of debate and expediting lawmaking. Critics contend that the absence of an upper house diminishes checks and balances and reduces regional representation.

Unicameral systems are found in various forms around the world. In many cases, they occur in unitary states where centralization of authority is feasible and desirable. Examples include Denmark, whose Folketing has been unicameral since 1953 following the abolition of the Landsting; Finland, whose Eduskunta has been unicameral since 1906; and Sweden, whose Riksdag has been unicameral since 1971. Other prominent unicameral legislatures include New Zealand’s Parliament (since 1951); Singapore’s Parliament; and the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China.

In the United States, Nebraska maintains a unicameral state legislature, adopted in 1937, known for its nonpartisan delegation.

Some countries retain bicameral legislatures as a means to represent subnational entities or to provide checks and balances on legislation. The choice between unicameral and bicameral structures often reflects historical, political, and administrative considerations, including the size of the federation, the distribution of power, and the desire for regional voice or national cohesion.