In Canada’s parliamentary system, the government must maintain the confidence of the elected House of Commons to stay in power. If it loses a vote of confidence, it must resign or call an election, ensuring that the government remains accountable to the people through their representatives.

A vote of confidence in the House of Commons tests whether the government still has the support of the majority of Members of Parliament. If the government loses the vote, it must either resign or request the Governor General to dissolve Parliament and call a federal election, ensuring accountability in a parliamentary democracy.

Municipal governments are responsible for local services that affect daily life in cities and towns. This includes garbage collection, water supply, public transit, road maintenance, and local parks, allowing communities to function efficiently and meet residents’ needs.

In Canada’s provinces, the King’s representative is called the Lieutenant Governor. They perform ceremonial duties, give Royal Assent to provincial laws, and ensure the provincial government operates according to the Constitution.

The New Democratic Party (NDP) is associated with social democracy, focusing on social programs, healthcare, workers’ rights, and equality. The party advocates for policies that support vulnerable populations and reduce economic and social disparities in Canada.

The Premier is the head of a provincial government in Canada. Similar to the Prime Minister at the federal level, the Premier leads the provincial cabinet, sets government priorities, and represents the province in intergovernmental matters.

In Canada’s territories, the King’s representative is called the Commissioner. Unlike Lieutenant Governors in provinces, Commissioners carry out federal responsibilities and act as the formal link between the territorial government and the federal government.

The Liberal Party of Canada has historically formed the federal government more often than any other party. Known for its centrist policies, the party has promoted social programs, bilingualism, multiculturalism, and national unity, shaping much of Canada’s modern political landscape.

In Canada, any citizen who is at least 18 years old can run as a candidate in a federal election. Candidates may represent a political party or run as independents, giving Canadians the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and represent their communities in Parliament.

Elections Canada is an independent, non-partisan agency responsible for organizing and overseeing federal elections and referendums. It ensures that elections are fair, transparent, and accessible to all eligible Canadian voters.

The purpose of an election is to let eligible citizens vote for candidates who will represent them in government, either at the federal, provincial/territorial, or municipal level. Elections are a key part of democracy, giving people a voice in how their country or community is governed.

The Senate of Canada serves as a chamber of “sober second thought”, reviewing legislation passed by the House of Commons. Senators can propose amendments, suggest improvements, and ensure laws are fair and effective, providing a balance in the legislative process.

The Conservative Party is traditionally associated with supporting business, economic growth, and lower taxes. It emphasizes fiscal responsibility, free-market policies, and limited government intervention in the economy.

The Governor General formally opens and closes sessions of Parliament through ceremonial events, such as the Speech from the Throne at the start of a session. This represents the constitutional role of the Crown in Canada’s parliamentary system.

A political party is an organized group of people with shared beliefs and policies about how government should operate. Parties nominate candidates for elections, seek to form government or opposition, and aim to implement their ideas through laws and public policy.

Canada has three levels of government: federal, provincial/territorial, and municipal. Each level has distinct responsibilities to manage national, regional, and local matters, ensuring effective governance across the country.

In Canada, laws are made by the Parliament of Canada, which consists of the House of Commons and the Senate, with the Governor General giving Royal Assent. This process ensures that proposed bills are carefully reviewed, debated, and approved before becoming law.

Canada’s government is organized into three levels:

Federal – handles national matters like defence, foreign policy, and immigration.

Provincial/Territorial – manages education, health care, and local natural resources.

Municipal – oversees local services such as water, garbage, and public transportation.

This structure ensures responsibilities are divided efficiently across different areas of governance.

The Bloc Québécois is a federal political party that operates only in Québec. Its primary goal is to represent Québec’s interests in the House of Commons and promote policies that support the province’s culture, language, and autonomy.

The Speaker of the House of Commons is responsible for maintaining order during debates, ensuring rules and procedures are followed, and facilitating fair discussion among Members of Parliament. The Speaker is impartial and does not normally vote except to break a tie.