AQA GCSE Citizenship Studies key terms

A reasoned judgement about strengths, weaknesses and possible improvements, supported by evidence.

Information used to support or challenge a claim or conclusion, such as research findings, correspondence or recorded feedback.

A policy area retained at UK level under Northern Ireland’s devolution settlement, such as defence or immigration. The Assembly cannot legislate on it unless it is transferred through primary legislation.

The branch of government responsible for running the country, developing policies and putting laws and decisions into effect.

An organisation within a government department that usually delivers a particular service rather than deciding policy.

The description of the Prime Minister as the leading Cabinet member who is nevertheless expected to work collectively with other ministers.

An electoral system in which each voter chooses one candidate and the candidate receiving the most votes in a constituency wins its seat.

A space or platform where people can communicate, discuss and exchange ideas and opinions.

The legal right to vote in an election.

The ability to think, speak or act without unnecessary interference, within laws that protect other people’s rights.

The freedom to form or join organisations, such as political parties and pressure groups.

The freedom to communicate opinions and ideas, including criticism of the government.

A request to a public authority for recorded information it holds, subject to legal exemptions.

The principle allowing EU citizens to move between EU member states to live and work, subject to the applicable rules.

Media able to report news and express opinions without government censorship or political control, while remaining subject to the law.

An MP who holds a ministerial or opposition spokesperson role and sits on the front benches in the House of Commons.

A decision about how much public money to give to different services, projects or priorities.

An election in which voters across the UK choose the MPs who will represent their constituencies in the House of Commons.

Four international treaties agreed in 1949 that provide major protections for victims of armed conflict.

A sense of connection to people, communities and concerns across the world, beyond one country.

The people responsible for running the country and developing and carrying out policies, led by the Prime Minister.

The practical organisation and work needed to put government decisions into effect and deliver public services.

An organisation responsible for a particular area of government work, such as transport or defence. Most are led by ministers.

Money provided by government to another organisation or level of government to help fund its work.

Work directly involving local people and communities, rather than being directed only from national or international leadership.

England, Scotland and Wales collectively; it does not include Northern Ireland.

A government document setting out ideas for discussion and consultation, which may lead to proposals for legislation.

A complaint that a worker raises with their employer about a workplace problem.