éénpartijsysteem

éénpartijsysteem is a Dutch term referring to a political system where a single political party holds all power and dominates the government. In such a system, other political parties are either outlawed or effectively prevented from participating in elections or holding any significant influence. The ruling party often controls all branches of government, including the legislature, executive, and judiciary.

The existence of an éénpartijsysteem typically implies a lack of political pluralism and a suppression of dissent. Elections, if held at all, are usually non-competitive, with only the candidate or candidates approved by the ruling party appearing on the ballot. Freedom of speech and assembly may be severely restricted to prevent opposition from forming or organizing.

Historically, many authoritarian and totalitarian regimes have operated under an éénpartijsysteem. Examples include the Soviet Union under the Communist Party, Nazi Germany under the National Socialist German Workers' Party, and Maoist China under the Communist Party of China. The ruling party in an éénpartijsysteem often justifies its monopoly on power by claiming to represent the will of the people or to be the sole guardian of national interests.

While officially recognized political opposition is absent, informal resistance or dissent may still exist within the population, though often at great personal risk. The long-term stability and legitimacy of an éénpartijsysteem are frequently debated, with critics pointing to its inherent lack of accountability and potential for human rights abuses.