Italy's political system is shaped by its Constitution, adopted in 1948, which guarantees individual rights and outlines government structure. As a parliamentary republic, it features a President, Prime Minister, and a bicameral legislature, ensuring representation and accountability.
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Italian Constitution
- Adopted on January 1, 1948, it establishes the fundamental principles of the Italian state.
- Guarantees individual rights and freedoms, including equality, freedom of speech, and the right to work.
- Outlines the structure of government, including the separation of powers among the legislative, executive, and judiciary branches.
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Parliamentary Republic
- Italy is a parliamentary republic, meaning the government is accountable to Parliament.
- The President of the Republic is the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government.
- The government derives its legitimacy from the confidence of the Parliament.
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President of the Republic
- Serves as the ceremonial head of state and represents national unity.
- Elected by an electoral assembly for a seven-year term and can be re-elected.
- Has the power to appoint the Prime Minister and dissolve Parliament under certain conditions.
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Prime Minister (Presidente del Consiglio)
- The Prime Minister is the leader of the government and responsible for executing laws and policies.
- Appointed by the President and must maintain the confidence of the Chamber of Deputies.
- Oversees the Cabinet and coordinates the activities of various ministries.
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Chamber of Deputies
- The lower house of Parliament, consisting of 400 members elected for five-year terms.
- Responsible for proposing and voting on legislation, as well as controlling government actions.
- Plays a crucial role in budget approval and can initiate votes of no confidence against the government.
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Senate of the Republic
- The upper house of Parliament, composed of 200 elected senators and a few life senators.
- Senators serve for five years and have similar legislative powers as the Chamber of Deputies.
- Reviews and can amend legislation passed by the Chamber of Deputies.
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Bicameral legislature
- Italy has a bicameral system, meaning it has two houses: the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate.
- Both houses must approve legislation for it to become law, ensuring checks and balances.
- This structure aims to represent different interests and regions within Italy.
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Political parties
- Italy has a multi-party system, with numerous parties representing a wide range of ideologies.
- Major parties include the Democratic Party, League, and Brothers of Italy, among others.
- Political parties play a significant role in forming coalitions to achieve a majority in Parliament.
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Electoral system
- Italy uses a mixed electoral system combining proportional representation and first-past-the-post.
- Voters elect members of both the Chamber of Deputies and the Senate through a combination of party lists and individual candidates.
- The system aims to balance representation and stability in government.
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Regions and local government
- Italy is divided into 20 regions, each with its own government and varying degrees of autonomy.
- Regions have legislative powers in areas such as health, education, and transportation.
- Local governments (communes) manage local affairs and services, promoting grassroots democracy.
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Judiciary system
- The judiciary is independent and responsible for interpreting laws and ensuring justice.
- The Constitutional Court reviews the constitutionality of laws and resolves disputes between state powers.
- Courts are organized into various levels, including ordinary courts, administrative courts, and specialized courts.
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European Union membership
- Italy is a founding member of the European Union, joining in 1957.
- EU membership influences Italian laws, policies, and economic practices, promoting integration with other member states.
- Italy participates in EU decision-making processes and benefits from various EU programs and funding.