Party Systems Overview
This page provides an introduction to different types of systemy partyjne (party systems) and their key characteristics.
Definition: A party system refers to the overall relationships between political parties operating within a given state, including their roles, functions, and interactions with state apparatus.
The main types of party systems covered include:
System jednopartyjny (monopartyjny): In this system, only one political party is legally allowed to operate. All other parties are banned or illegal.
Example: This system existed in the Soviet Union.
System partii hegemonicznej: While other parties may legally exist, one party maintains hegemonic control over the government.
Example: This system currently exists in China and North Korea.
System dwupartyjny: Two major parties dominate, alternating control of government.
Example: The United States and United Kingdom utilize this system.
Vocabulary: System dwóch partii dominujących refers to a system where two parties are dominant enough to govern alone after winning elections.
System dwuipółpartyjny: Similar to a two-party system, but the two major parties must form coalitions with smaller parties to govern.
Example: Germany utilized this system for many years.
The page also provides a definition of a political party as a voluntary organization seeking to gain or maintain power in order to implement its political program.
