singleparty

Single-party is a term used to describe a political system in which a single political party exercises exclusive control over the government. In such systems, other parties are often prohibited from attaining power, or are allowed only in a highly constrained, noncompetitive form. The ruling party typically dominates legislative, executive, and sometimes judicial functions, with political legitimacy anchored in the party’s ideology and leadership.

Elections, if held, are usually noncompetitive, with candidates selected or approved by the ruling party. Opposition activity may be restricted or banned, and media, civil society, and security services are commonly aligned with the party to maintain unified policy direction. The state and the party often promote a coherent, long-term program, sometimes justified as delivering stability, continuity, and mobilization around a common national goal. Critics argue that single-party systems limit political freedoms, suppress dissent, and curtail accountability, potentially leading to abuses of power. Proponents contend that they can provide policy consistency, rapid decision-making, and social cohesion, especially in times of crisis or for programs requiring long planning horizons.

Historical and contemporary examples commonly associated with single-party rule include countries where a single party dominates political life, such as China (Communist Party of China), Cuba (Communist Party), North Korea (Workers’ Party), Vietnam (Communist Party), and Laos (Lao People’s Revolutionary Party). The design and practice of single-party governance vary widely, and the term is sometimes used descriptively rather than as a formal constitutional label. See also one-party state, one-party dominant systems, authoritarianism.