AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies key terms

A legally recognised relationship that gives partners legal rights and responsibilities.

The body of government staff who support the government of the day by advising on policy, implementing decisions and delivering public services.

Organisations and groups outside government and business through which people act together, such as charities, voluntary groups and community organisations.

A person or organisation bringing a civil claim.

A party list whose candidate order is decided by the party; voters cannot choose between candidates on that party's list.

A government formed by two or more political parties that agree to govern together and share ministerial posts.

Rules setting out the standards of behaviour expected of councillors.

People working together towards a shared aim, combining their voices, knowledge and resources.

Negotiation between a trade union and an employer over matters such as workers’ pay and conditions.

An arrangement in which countries agree that an attack on one member is a concern for all and that they will assist the attacked member.

The principle that government ministers must publicly support agreed government decisions, even if they disagreed privately, or are expected to resign.

An authority bringing together a group of local councils to carry out agreed functions across a wider area.

Having enough support in the House of Commons to survive votes of no confidence and secure essential decisions, such as government funding.

Law developed through judges’ decisions in court cases, rather than made through legislation.

The extent to which people from different backgrounds feel connected, included and able to live and work together.

A court sentence served in the community, with requirements such as unpaid work, treatment or a curfew.

A system in which eligible citizens are legally required to participate in voting, usually with a penalty for unjustified non-participation.

A judgement reached after considering the evidence in relation to the question being investigated.

An agreement under which a party outside government supports it on confidence votes and essential financial votes without taking ministerial posts.

A political philosophy emphasising tradition, duty and continuity, generally supporting private enterprise and limited government intervention.

A geographical area whose voters elect one MP to represent them in the House of Commons.

A meeting at which residents can discuss personal or local problems with their MP.

The rules and principles that organise a state, allocate political power and govern how that power is exercised.

An established constitutional rule or practice that is regarded as binding politically, although it is not itself a legal rule.

A system in which a monarch is Head of State but exercises powers within constitutional limits rather than personally governing the country.

Seeking people's views on a proposal before deciding what to do.

A current matter affecting a community or wider society that connects to citizenship, such as rights, laws, democratic participation or public decision-making.