Monarchy- a system of government in which the ruler or the head of a state is a king or queen and the post is hereditary. This form of government has existed since about the tenth century. However, now most countries have changed this system of government and have let go of monarchy. Nevertheless, countries like the United Kingdom, Belgium, Norway, and Thailand have this system of government prevalent even today.
In most of the countries where the monarchy is followed, the king or queen is the sovereign head of the state but the decision to make and pass laws is in the hands of an elected parliament. Although there is a lot of pomp and wonderful presentation associated with monarchy, the monarch does not have a lot of power. The powers of the head of the state usually include representational duties. The monarch is considered to give royal consent when a law is passed. They also do have the power to appoint and dismiss ministers and to summon and prorogue the parliament. The duties of the monarch also include the monarch acting as the symbol of national identity, unity, and peace. In England, the monarch is supported by the immediate members of the family who also are an active part of the government. The residents of England highly respect the royal family but will this continue for long?
Today we talk about equality of opportunity and no belief in blind faith. The modern school of thought suggests that we must all have a say in who rules us. Keeping all of this in mind, is it fair to have a family that has been ruling for the past 1200 years? This was one of the major reasons that England was converted to a constitutional monarchy in 1689. When we talk about individuality nowadays we say that a great scientist's son doesn't need to grow up to be a great scientist himself. Each and every individual is different and has the right to choose the way they want to live their life. Recently, we witnessed the death of a great ruler Queen Elizabeth II. Her reigns were taken over by her eldest son King Charles III. About two years ago, news had been raised in regards to the royal family when King Charles’ second son, Prince Harry, had let go of his royal title. He and his wife Meghan Markle permanently resigned from all royal duties and even shifted out from the royal residence. This showcased them choosing their personal choice over the titles and responsibilities they held.
Queen Elizabeth ruled for 70 years and 214 days. She was the longest female ruler in history. The people of England had deep respect for their queen but it is not necessary that they would continue to have it for King Charles III. The ability to rule a country, or even represent it, is something that comes by instinct or a well-developed talent. King Charles III may or may not have these instincts. For that matter, any member of the entire royal family may or may not have the qualities needed for ruling a country as large and economically developed as England. Many residents of England themselves may have more knowledge than the royals and may be more capable and qualified for the powers. The system of monarchy is cruel in this way. The monarchs are given the power to rule by the only qualification being their family of birth. The family has indeed been ruling for a very long period of time, but with the evolving times, things are changing and it is important for a change to take place in all sectors of life, which includes the government setup.
It is quoted very well in the constitution of England “In the eyes of the law, everyone is equal, regardless of their position or rank”, so it is time this statement is truly followed. It is time the system of government in England and all other countries following monarchy is changed to a democratic or a similar set-up where the people have the power to elect who represents and governs the country.
Bibliography:
Cava, M. U. T. della. “How much power did Queen Elizabeth II actually have? And will King Charles III have more or less?” USA TODAY. 19th September, 2022.Web. 6th October.
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