No-Confidence Vote

Definition

A no-confidence vote is a parliamentary procedure used to remove a sitting government from office if it loses the support or confidence of the majority of legislators.

Analogy

Imagine you are playing on a sports team, and your coach is not doing a good job leading the team. In this case, a no-confidence vote would be like all the players coming together and voting to remove the coach because they have lost confidence in their ability to lead effectively.

Related terms

Parliamentary System: A parliamentary system is a form of government where executive power is vested in a cabinet led by a prime minister who must maintain the support of parliament. The no-confidence vote is an essential tool within this system.

Vote of Confidence: A vote of confidence is the opposite of a no-confidence vote. It occurs when legislators express their support for an existing government, reaffirming their trust and allowing it to continue governing.

Coalition Government: A coalition government forms when multiple political parties join forces to create a majority in parliament. No-confidence votes can lead to changes in coalition governments if one party withdraws its support from another.