Australian Citizenship Practice Exam

What is a constitutional monarchy?

1. A country ruled by military generals

2. A country with an emperor as the head of state

3. A country that follows religious laws

4. A country in which a king or queen is the head of state but has to act in accordance with the constitution

The correct answer is: A country in which a king or queen is the head of state but has to act in accordance with the constitution

A constitutional monarchy is a form of government where a monarch, such as a king or queen, serves as the head of state within the boundaries set by a constitution. This constitution outlines the powers of the monarch as well as the rights of citizens, thereby limiting the monarch’s authority and ensuring that governance adheres to established laws and principles. In this system, while the monarch may perform ceremonial duties and represent the nation, the actual governance is carried out by elected officials and is subject to the rule of law. In contrast, a country ruled by military generals generally implies a military junta, where the armed forces hold power without the constitutional checks typically present in a constitutional monarchy. A country with an emperor as the head of state suggests a form of monarchy but doesn't specify whether it operates under constitutional constraints; such a system could be absolute or ceremonial. Lastly, a country that follows religious laws indicates a theocratic system where religious authorities govern, which is distinct from the secular and constitutional framework of a constitutional monarchy.