forms of government

A form of government is a term that refers to the set of political institutions by which a state is organized in order to exert its powers over a political community. Synonyms include "regime type" and "system of government". This definition holds valid even if the government is illegitimate or if it is unsuccessful in exerting its power. Regardless of its qualities, a failed government is still a form of government. Churches, corporations, clubs, and other sub-national entities also have "government" forms, but in this article only the organization of states is discussed.
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