Gina Moore

3/19/2014

[Edition 1, Volume 1]

ROLE OF GOVERNMENT SPAIN

Spain was ruled under a dictatorship for the majority of its existence. After dismantling the dictatorship of Francisco Franco y Bahamonde (dictator of Spain, 1939-75) Spain had trouble getting the entire nation on board for the new, democratic government. Most of the country however, were nervous, but quickly took a liking to participation in their government. This was the first time that the citizens of Spain had a voice in how they felt their government should be ran. In 1978, a new constitution was created and ruled Spain a democratic state by law. Spain is defined as a parliamentary monarchy, meaning a king leads the state as a political figure, and symbol of unity. This new government has changed the way Spain is seen to others.

BACKGROUND

LOCAL GOVERNMENT:

BRANCHES

King of Spain, Juan Carlos of Spain

KING: The king represents the country of Spain. The position is chosen through heredity. The Kings oldest son will take over the thrown, once the king retires his position. Although, Spain is seen as a parliamentary monarchy, the king is used a head of the state. The king, has the control to promote laws, choose ministers, and be a head for foreign affairs. The king has the symbolic role of representing the state, the prime minister has the more powerful role of chief of government. CONGRESS OF DEPUTIES: The Congress of Deputies is a group of 300-400 individuals whom are elected by proportional representatives every four years. The majority of congress authority lies with the Congress of Deputies. This group is responsible for vetoing or decreeing any law. Also, the power to accuse a prime minister (or his ministries) or treason at any time.

The local government holds fully democratic elections. The citizens have the choice to vote for the Municipal Council. The council is reelected every four years. Duties provided by the local government include: regulations for local laws, budgets, and taxes. PRIME MINISTER: The prime minister and his cabinet are the highest executive institution in Spain. Once a prime minister either quits or is removed from office, the entire cabinet must quit along with him. The main job of the prime minister is to implement government policy. Also, both the prime minister and his cabinet are responsible for military actions, and national defense.

Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy