What is Parliament?
Parliament represents the interests of as many citizens of a country as possible, making it a primary form of democracy. Its members are elected based on citizen votes. Parliament is defined as the highest legislative body in a democratic system of government and is also known as the National Assembly, House of Representatives, People's Assembly, or National Council. It is the legislative branch among the three branches of government; the other two branches are the judiciary, consisting of courts and judges, and the executive, represented by the Cabinet, each with a separate system that maintains balance in the state.
The word "parliament" is derived from the French word parlement, meaning "to speak" or "discuss." In the modern era, parliament has become an official assembly where representatives discuss public affairs on behalf of the people. In its early beginnings, the British parliament in the Middle Ages was made up of nobles and clergy summoned by the British government to represent the people and discuss laws.
Origins of the Idea of Parliament
Most forms of government in the ancient world, despite their diversity and changing structures, were represented by nobles and the wealthy, with little direct representation of the general public and often governed in a semi-autocratic manner. Over time, however, the public began demanding a greater role in decision-making and laws that directly affected them. After significant public pressure, rulers agreed to establish councils to represent the people. In the modern era, this representation gradually expanded, and with the development of the democratic system, the authority of the legislative body became more pronounced. The parliamentary system originated in England in the late 13th century and was formally established by King Edward I of England in 1295, who invited representatives of landowners and urban residents to join the King's Council.
Roles of Parliament
Parliament is a key form of democracy, aiming to address public issues, create laws, and monitor the government. Members of parliament can also approve taxes and budgets, giving them authority to intervene in these matters. The main roles assigned to parliament members include:
- Monitoring Government Actions: The primary role of the House of Representatives is to oversee the government’s operations, examining military, financial, and cultural decisions issued by the executive council. Ministers and working committees are questioned by members of parliament if there are no clear reasons behind certain decisions.
- Reviewing and Approving Government Expenditures and Taxes: Parliament members discuss proposals and examine financial laws set by the executive council. The general budget is presented by the Minister of Finance or Treasury and is only approved by consensus of the House of Representatives.
- Legislating Laws: Parliament holds numerous sessions to discuss, establish, and amend old laws, reviewing government policy, proposed laws, and daily issues.
The Parliamentary System
The democratic form of government is the parliamentary system, where parties or legal groups form coalitions within the council. In many countries, these coalitions form the government, with the head of the coalition becoming the prime minister, or the head of the executive branch. Coalitions that fail to form the government act as the opposition to the majority, continuously challenging undesired laws and government actions that oppose their views. Prime ministers may be removed from power whenever they lose the confidence of the majority of parliament members or their party. This system first originated in Britain and was later adopted in British colonies.
Conclusion
Parliaments emerged and developed due to the public's strong desire for participation in governance and for building a strong nation. They also served to resolve conflicts and increase cohesion among diverse individuals and social groups. The development of parliaments during the Industrial Revolution in Europe particularly reflects this. When established, parliaments in various countries aimed to break old societal constraints, such as slavery, forced labor, feudalism, and other forms of injustice and division among citizens, reducing the social divide.
