One of the primary classifications of hallintomuotoihin is based on the source of authority. In a democracy, power is derived from the people, who exercise it through elections and other forms of direct or representative participation. In contrast, an autocracy concentrates power in the hands of a single ruler or a small group, often without significant input from the populace. A monarchy combines elements of both, with a monarch holding significant authority but often sharing power with a parliament or other governing bodies.
Another classification is based on the structure of decision-making. In a unitary system, power is concentrated at the central level, with little autonomy for regional or local governments. In a federal system, power is shared between the central government and regional or state governments, each having its own sphere of authority. A confederation is a loose association of independent states that come together for specific purposes, such as defense or economic cooperation.
The distribution of power within a hallintomuoto also varies. In a presidential system, the executive and legislative branches are separate, with the president serving as the head of state and government. In a parliamentary system, the executive branch is part of the legislature, with the prime minister typically being the leader of the majority party in parliament. A semi-presidential system combines elements of both, with a president serving as the head of state and a prime minister as the head of government.
Hallintomuotoihin can also be influenced by cultural, historical, and economic factors. For example, some societies may adopt a theocratic system, where religious leaders hold significant political authority. In others, a meritocratic system may be preferred, where individuals are chosen for positions based on their qualifications and achievements.