politicus

Politicus is a term used in several languages to denote a person who participates in politics, most often a politician who holds public office, campaigns for election, or otherwise influences public policy. The word originates from Latin politicus, which itself derives from the Greek politikos, meaning related to the polis or city-state. In English the closest form is politician; in Dutch the equivalent is politicus, while other languages have similar terms with minor variations.

In a democratic or representative system, a politicus may be elected to legislative, executive, or local offices, or appointed to public bodies. Responsibilities typically include representing constituents, drafting or voting on laws, shaping budgets, overseeing government programs, and communicating with the public. Some politici are career politicians; others serve temporarily while maintaining other occupations or roles in society.

Ethical and practical scrutiny accompanies public life. Political figures are evaluated on transparency, conflicts of interest, accountability, and the effectiveness of their policy outcomes. The term covers a wide range of ideologies and governing structures, from party-affiliated elected officials to independent policy advocates and public administrators who influence policy without holding elected office.

See also: politics, governance, public office.