Edexcel GCSE Citizenship Studies key terms

A survey of the population and households that provides information about their characteristics.

The government minister who leads the Treasury and is responsible for taxation, public spending and management of the UK's public finances.

An organisation established for charitable purposes that benefit the public, using its funds to further those purposes.

Arrangements through which institutions examine and limit the exercise of power, helping to prevent its abuse.

The most senior council officer and head of its paid staff, responsible for managing operations and implementing councillors’ decisions.

A planned course of informed action addressing a citizenship issue and aiming to benefit or bring change to a community or wider society.

An investigation into a citizenship issue using research questions and evidence to reach an informed conclusion.

Deliberately breaking the law to challenge an injustice or press for change.

A person who is not a member of the armed forces; international humanitarian law protects civilians who are not directly participating in hostilities against attack.

Law used to resolve disputes between individuals, businesses or other organisations and protect their rights.

Basic freedoms, such as freedom of speech, peaceful assembly and the press, which protect people’s ability to express views and act independently.

The permanent officials who advise ministers and administer government policy, serving governments of different political parties impartially.

Independent organisations and informal groups through which people work together outside government to pursue shared concerns.

The person or organisation bringing a civil claim against another person or organisation.

A government in which two or more political parties agree to govern together and share ministerial responsibilities.

Working with others towards a shared goal, coordinating tasks and supporting one another.

People working together to pursue a shared aim, rather than acting separately.

Negotiation between an employer and workers’ representatives over matters such as pay, hours and working conditions.

An arrangement in which members agree to assist one another against armed attack.

The principle that Cabinet ministers must publicly support agreed government decisions or normally resign.

The stage at which a bill is examined line by line and amendments are considered.

Law developed through judges’ decisions in court cases, also called case law.

A voluntary association of countries, most of which have historical connections to the British Empire.

A situation in which people from different groups trust one another, cooperate and feel that they belong to a shared community.

Compulsory unpaid work carried out by an offender for the benefit of the community as part of a community sentence.

A sentence served outside custody, involving requirements and supervision rather than detention.

Support in the House of Commons that allows a government to remain in office and carry out its essential business.