Legal Definitions - monarchy

A monarchy is a form of government where a single individual, known as a monarch (such as a king, queen, emperor, or sultan), serves as the head of state. The extent of the monarch's power can vary significantly, ranging from absolute authority where they hold supreme governmental control, to a purely symbolic or ceremonial role with little to no political power.

• Example 1 (Absolute Monarchy): In the historical context of the Russian Empire before the 20th century, the Tsar held nearly absolute power. The Tsar could issue decrees, command the military, and appoint government officials without needing approval from a parliament or other elected body. This illustrates a monarchy where the ruler's authority was largely unrestricted and supreme.

• Example 2 (Ceremonial Monarchy): The Emperor of Japan today serves as the head of state and a symbol of the nation, but holds no political power. All governmental decisions are made by elected officials and the Diet (parliament). This demonstrates a monarchy where the ruler's role is primarily ceremonial, embodying the state without exercising direct political control.

A limited monarchy, also known as a constitutional monarchy, is a type of monarchy where the monarch's powers are restricted by a constitution, laws, or established customs. In this system, the monarch typically acts as head of state, but their ability to govern is constrained, often by a parliament or other democratic institutions.

• Example 1: The United Kingdom operates as a constitutional monarchy. While King Charles III is the head of state, his powers are largely ceremonial and symbolic. Real political power resides with the democratically elected Parliament and the Prime Minister, who form the government. This shows how a constitution and parliamentary system limit the monarch's direct influence on governance.

• Example 2: In the Kingdom of Spain, the King is the head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, but his actions are governed by the Spanish Constitution. He must approve laws passed by the Cortes Generales (parliament) and acts on the advice of the government. This exemplifies a limited monarchy where the monarch's authority is clearly defined and constrained by a written constitution.