checks and balances

Checks and balances is a system in which different branches of government can limit one another’s power, so that no one branch becomes too powerful.

• In a democracy, the main branches are the legislature, which makes laws; the executive, which carries out laws; and the judiciary, which interprets laws and the Constitution.
• Each branch has its own role, but it can also check whether the others are acting fairly and within the law. This helps prevent the misuse of power.
• For example, Parliament may pass a law, but courts can examine whether that law goes against the Constitution. If it does, the judiciary may declare it invalid.
• The executive cannot simply act according to the wishes of its leaders; its actions can be challenged in court if they violate citizens’ rights or constitutional rules.
• Checks and balances are connected to the separation of powers: powers are divided among branches, while checks ensure that this division works in practice.
• This system protects democracy because government decisions remain answerable to the Constitution and to the people’s rights.