ministères

Ministères are government departments headed by a minister, responsible for a defined policy area and the administration of public programs. The term is used in many countries to describe core executive units; in French-speaking contexts the plural "ministères" is standard.

The ministries typically undertake policy development, regulatory activities, and service delivery through subordinate agencies, directorates-general, or service ministries. They prepare annual budgets, draft legislation, implement government programs, and monitor performance within their remit.

Ministers are usually members of the cabinet and are accountable to the legislature. They are appointed by the head of government or the head of state and may require parliamentary confidence. An established civil service supports them with nonpolitical administration, policy analysis, and implementation capacity.

There is variation in naming and structure across countries. In many places the term "ministry" is standard (for example in France, Germany, and many Latin American states). In others, especially the United Kingdom and Canada, the equivalent units are commonly called departments, though functionally similar. In the United States, the comparable units are federal departments led by secretaries.

Common sectors covered by ministères include finance or treasury, foreign affairs, interior or home affairs, defense, education, health, justice, environment, economy, transport, and social development. The precise scope, powers, and level of autonomy of each ministry depend on constitutional arrangements and administrative traditions.