Lecture Notes: Canadian Political System

Introduction

• Canada has a parliamentary democracy, unlike the presidential system.
• Key difference is the role of head of state.

Parliamentary vs. Presidential Systems

• Parliamentary (Canada)
  • Head of state: Queen (apolitical role)
  • Prime Minister: head of government
  • Voters elect legislature (parliament); parliament elects Prime Minister.
  • Prime Minister = leader of party with House confidence.
• Presidential (USA)
  • Head of state = President
  • Voters elect both legislature and executive.

Path to Sovereignty

• 1840s: Responsible government in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, and Canada (Ontario & Quebec).
• 1867: Formation of Dominion of Canada.
  • Part of British Empire, but self-governing except in foreign affairs.
• World War I: Canada fought independently, signed Treaty of Versailles.
• 1931: Statute of Westminster - legal autonomy for Canadian Parliament.
• 1982: Constitution Act; Quebec did not ratify.

Levels of Government in Canada

• Federal, Provincial, and Municipal
  • Federal: Judicial, Legislative, Executive branches.
  • Provincial: Each province has its own legislature.
  • Municipal: Non-partisan elections for councillors and mayors.

Federal Government Structure

• Legislative Branch:

  • Bicameral parliament: House of Commons (elected) & Senate (appointed).
  • House of Commons introduces and debates legislation.
  • Senate debates and approves legislation; limited power.

• Executive Branch:

  • Led by the Prime Minister and the cabinet.
  • PM is leader of largest party in the House.
  • Opposition leader has significant responsibilities.

Canadian Political System Characteristics

• No strict separation of powers.
• Leader-centric; party leaders hold significant power.
• Constitution includes Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
• Provincial Government:
  • Unicameral legislature.
  • Responsibilities include education, healthcare, and transportation.

Comparison with American Political System

• Both have bicameral legislatures.
• Different methods of election and appointment.
• Canada:
  • Only elects members of parliament.
  • Senators appointed by PM.
• USA:
  • Direct election of representatives, senators, and president.

Conclusion

• Canadian and American systems are similar but differ substantially in elections.

Additional Information

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