General management of parliamentary time
A parliamentary term is the period during which an elected representative holds office in a parliamentary institution, such as the lower or upper house. Its duration varies from country to country, generally between 4 and 5 years in Europe. In Switzerland, for example, the term is 4 years, and in France and Italy 5 years. The upper houses often have different terms of office, such as the French Senate, which is elected for 6 years. Elections are held on a regular basis and can be marked by a high level of abstention.
The length of the parliamentary term
The length of the term of office influences the stability and effectiveness of a parliamentary system. A 5-year term of office allows for prolonged action, with elections held on schedule.
The timing of parliamentary and executive elections varies from country to country due to differences in political and electoral systems
Elections may be synchronised or separated depending on the country. In France, the legislative and presidential terms of office are aligned, encouraging coherent action between the two powers.
Parliaments make time and speaking time sacred
In the Swedish and Norwegian parliaments, speaking time is allocated according to the size of the groups. In Italy and Finland, parliamentary sessions last all year round, with special times.
Find out more about the general management of parliamentary time here (pdf, 107 ko)
