The United Kingdom, the birthplace of the modern parliamentary system, established parliamentary sovereignty in 1688. The dualist system is based on a balance between the government, Parliament and the Head of State. In Europe, there are dualist systems (Lithuania, Portugal) and monist systems (Italy, Spain, Poland), varying between parliamentary majorities and rationalised parliamentarism.
A system that creates a degree of stability
Rationalised parliamentarism promotes stability by ensuring a clear majority, government accountability to parliament, control mechanisms and rapid decision-making, limiting deadlocks.
Increasing limitations on parliamentary activity
In some countries, Parliament has a limited ability to overthrow the government. In the UK, the majority enjoys a presumption of confidence. In Spain, rejection leads to resignation, while in Italy, the President can dissolve Parliament.
Find out more about the delicate balance of rationalised parliamentarism here (pdf, 113 ko)
