Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The formal procedure by which changes or additions are made to a constitution.

A document submitted by a non-party to a court case offering information or expertise relevant to the case to assist in decision-making.

A constitutional provision that authorizes government spending only if approved by the legislature through specific appropriations.

Checks and balances distribute government powers to prevent any branch from becoming too powerful.

The study and analysis of different federal systems around the world to understand variations in power distribution and governance.

Concurrent powers are authorities shared by both federal and state governments, allowing them to legislate and enforce laws in the same areas.

A formal change or addition made to a constitution following a specific legal procedure.

A specialized judicial body that rules on the constitutionality of laws and government actions, separate from ordinary courts.

The process of making certain constitutional provisions difficult to amend or repeal. It protects fundamental rights and structures from easy changes.

A form of federalism where state and national governments operate independently in their own areas of policy and law enforcement.

A system where the executive and legislative branches are interconnected, typical in parliamentary systems.

A judicial philosophy where courts are more willing to interpret the constitution broadly and overturn laws or policies to promote social change.

An independent body that selects and recommends candidates for judicial office to ensure impartiality and merit-based appointments.

The principle that the judiciary should be free from undue influence by the executive or legislative branches to ensure impartial decision-making.

A body that recommends or selects candidates for judicial appointments to promote merit over politics. It aims to enhance judicial independence and reduce partisan influence.

Judicial restraint limits courts from overturning laws unless they clearly violate the constitution, emphasizing respect for legislative decisions.

The judicial review doctrine empowers courts to invalidate laws and executive actions that conflict with the constitution.

A principle where courts avoid interfering with legislative or executive decisions unless there is a clear violation of the constitution or rights.

A court order compelling a government official or agency to perform a mandatory duty correctly and promptly.

Protections and entitlements guaranteed to minority groups to ensure fair treatment and prevent majority dominance.

A doctrine asserting a state's right to invalidate federal laws deemed unconstitutional within its borders.

The principle that the legislature has supreme authority over all other government institutions and can make or repeal any law.

An executive branch structure where multiple officials are independently elected rather than a single chief executive.

A policy strategy that integrates human rights principles into the design and implementation of policies.

The principle that all individuals and institutions are subject to and accountable under laws that are fairly applied and enforced.

The division of government responsibilities into distinct branches to prevent concentration of power and provide checks and balances.

State sovereignty is the principle that states have supreme authority over their territory and domestic affairs without external interference.