Chapter # 3 – Understanding the Political System of Pakistan
SLO 3.1.3: Define the Terms Federal, Unitary, Parliamentary, and Presidential Systems
Introduction
Countries around the world adopt different systems of government according to their history, geography, and political needs. These systems determine how power is distributed and how governments function.
Pakistan follows a federal parliamentary system, while other countries may follow unitary or presidential systems.
Federal System
A federal system is a form of government in which powers are divided between the central (federal) government and regional governments such as provinces or states.
Features of a Federal System
- Two levels of government.
- Powers divided by the constitution.
- Provincial governments have constitutional authority.
- Both levels work independently within their powers.
Example
Pakistan, the United States, and Canada have federal systems.
Unitary System
A unitary system is a form of government in which all major powers are concentrated in the central government.
Regional authorities function under the control of the central government.
Features of a Unitary System
- Single central authority.
- Local governments have limited powers.
- Policies are usually uniform throughout the country.
Example
United Kingdom, France, and Japan have largely unitary systems.
Parliamentary System
A parliamentary system is a system in which the executive branch derives its authority from the parliament.
The Prime Minister is the head of government and is elected by members of parliament.
Features
- Prime Minister is head of government.
- Cabinet is responsible to parliament.
- Government remains in power as long as it enjoys parliamentary support.
Example
Pakistan, India, and the United Kingdom follow parliamentary systems.
Presidential System
A presidential system is a system in which the President is both the head of state and head of government.
The President is elected separately from the legislature.
Features
- President exercises executive authority.
- Clear separation of powers.
- Fixed term of office.
Example
The United States follows a presidential system.
Comparison of Government Systems
| Federal System | Unitary System |
|---|---|
| Power shared between central and provincial governments | Power concentrated in central government |
| Provinces have constitutional powers | Local governments depend on central authority |
| Parliamentary System | Presidential System |
|---|---|
| Prime Minister is head of government | President is head of government |
| Executive is responsible to parliament | Executive is independent of legislature |
Summary
A federal system divides powers between federal and provincial governments, while a unitary system concentrates power in the central government. In a parliamentary system, the Prime Minister leads the government and is accountable to parliament, whereas in a presidential system, the President serves as both head of state and head of government. Pakistan follows a federal parliamentary system.
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