Slide Deck 1: Government Types

What types of rules and decisions are needed for people living in a community? Who is responsible for making decisions for the community?

Governments manage the land, resources and people living within their borders.

The Role of Government Create and enforce laws Provide programs and services Make decisions on behalf of the people

What would happen if there was no government responsible for creating laws and providing support to citizens?

Comparing Government Types Governments from around the world differ from one another. They can be compared in the following ways: How are decisions made? How many people have access to power? What rights and freedoms are given to citizens?

Do you know an example of a type of government Do you know an example of a type of government? Can you describe how it works and where it is used?

Dictatorship One person is the leader (dictator) and they hold all the power The leader makes all of the decisions The dictator often takes control without permission of the people, sometimes using military force Citizens do not have a say in any decisions Citizens lack many rights or freedoms (e.g., freedom to express their opinion)

Democracy Power is shared by many – “government by the people” Citizens have a say in their government by electing politicians to make decisions on their behalf Citizens can also choose to compete for the job of politician (they have access to power) Individual rights and freedoms are protected (such as freedom of speech, religion and assembly, free and fair elections)

Would you prefer to live in a democracy or a dictatorship? Why?

Monarchy A monarch (king or queen) is the head of state The role is inherited and usually lasts until death or resignation A monarchy can be a democracy or dictatorship

Constitutional Monarchy The authority of the monarch is limited by a constitution (legal document), which includes the principles and laws of a nation The government is elected by the people (democracy) The monarch is still the head of state and performs ceremonial duties. Citizens have protected rights and freedoms.

Match the Symbols Monarchy Dictatorship Democracy Constitutional Monarchy