Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A parliamentary democracy is a form of government where the executive branch (head of government) is accountable to the legislative branch (parliament), and the head of state is separate from the head of government.
The head of government is responsible for running day-to-day operations, making policy decisions, and implementing laws.
Presidential Democracy: In contrast to parliamentary democracy, in a presidential democracy, there is no separation between the head of state and head of government. The president serves as both roles.