Every country has a head of state, whether it is a president or a monarch. In many countries the head of state is a different person to the head of government, who is often referred to as prime minister. This is true of monarchies like Britain, Sweden and Denmark as well as republics like Ireland, Germany and Poland.
For over 70 years, we were so used to the Queen as head of state that we often assume the way she carried out the role was the only way it can – or should – be done.
But because the Monarch is unelected, there are important jobs they can't do – ones that an elected head of state, chosen by and answerable to the people, could.
When prime minister Boris Johnson asked the Queen to prorogue parliament, it was clear that the Queen has no independent role to play. For the first time the Queen's real job, which is to do what the PM tells her, was highlighted on prime-time TV. Whatever you think about Brexit, it can't be right that the head of state is there for no reason other than do the PM's bidding.
What is a head of state for?
- Katerina Sakellaropoulou, President of Greece
The phrase “ceremonial head of state” is misleading. It suggests that the role is purely for decoration, when it is actually a crucial part of the political system.
Because an elected head of state's neutrality is prescribed by law, they can be genuinely independent of government, acting as an impartial referee of the political system and an extra check on the power of government.
If there's a risk that a new law may breach fundamental rights or principles, for example, a head of state may refer it to the Supreme Court. Or if there is widespread public opposition to a bill, the president may consult the people in a referendum. These powers are rarely used, but vitally important in a democracy.
Aside from these formal functions, a president represents their country on the world stage and takes a leading role at times of national celebration, uncertainty or tragedy. In carrying out these parts of the job, an elected head of state knows they will be held to account for their words and actions, providing a strong incentive to be unifying and inclusive.
If a president attempts to overreach their powers, there's a clear process for removing them from office - unlike a monarch. And a president is paid a straightforward annual salary, usually with a small office and one official residence; the public is not expected to fund their extended family or maintain multiple homes.
Republic calls for a constitutional head of state.
Thank you for visiting the website. Here's the plan.
Public opinion has shifted dramatically over recent years, with a third now wanting the monarchy gone. Fewer than 20% are excited by the royals, while most people are on the fence and open to persuasion.
Republic has been growing louder and stronger since the coronation.
Now is the time to keep building, campaigning and persuading, and you're part of that plan.
By becoming a member for as little as £4 a month you can be part of that growing movement for change.
Here's the plan.
Our strategy is simple enough - but it's going to take a lot of hard work. Republic is ready for the challenge, you can do your bit by joining today.
Republic's focus is on building the movement by drawing in the support of those who already agree, while also campaigning to persuade the next 20% to support a democratic alternative to the monarchy.
As the polls shift further in our favour - and they will - our attention will turn to putting pressure on politicians to give us a referendum on the issue. It's a referendum we know we can win when the time is right.
By becoming a member of Republic you will help the campaign grow, to ensure we can shift those polls.
The politicians don't even have to agree with a republic - they just need to know that a referendum is necessary because popular support for the monarchy has vanished.
Republic's strategy is to drive public opinion and use that shift in support to pressure politicians. This has to be an issue led by ordinary voters, and the MPs will follow.
Your membership makes all the difference.
To build the movement and persuade the next 20% we need to keep doing two things: Make a lot of noise and engage in serious debate. We make noise to attract attention to the issue, with protests, media work, digital content and much more. And we use the media, social media, video and events to engage with the public in a serious debate about the monarchy and the democratic alternative.
That's it! We know from experience that most people are open to persuasion. We need to keep making that noise and engaging in debate to see the polls shift.
And that's where you come in.
Join today from as little as £4 a month.
Republic isn't bankrolled by billionaires. The campaign is funded by ordinary people around the country, people who want to see the an end to the monarchy. People like you!
Join today!
Do you like this page?