Social Democracy Essay, Research Paper

Austria is a democratic, federal republic. The constitution of Austria provides for a distinct division of power among the executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. Basic human rights and liberties are granted by the constitution and so are the rights of minorities granted as well. Executive power is exercised by the President of the republic, and by the Council of the Ministers. The Chancellor, who is selected by the Nationalrat, then appointed by the President heads up the Council of the ministers. The people of Austria popularly elect the President himself. As well as being able to appoint a Chancellor, the President can also dismiss one. The parliamentary system consists of a Federal legislative power that is vested principally in the National Council, which is called the Nationalrat, (or Lower House). The Nationalrat is composed of 183 members2. The system that the Austrians use in choosing who represents the 183 seats is a system of proportional representation. The cabinet may remain in office only so long as it enjoys the confidence of the National Council. The Federal Council, (the upper house), consists