Grand National Assembly of Turkey

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Type
Type	Unicameral
Chambers
Term limits
Founded	23 April 1920
Disbanded
Preceded by
Succeeded by

The Grand National Assembly of Turkey (Turkish: Türkiye Büyük Millet Meclisi ), often referred to simply as the Turkish Parliament, is the unicameral legislative body of Turkey. It was founded on 23 April 1920 during the Turkish War of Independence and has been the sole body of legislative authority in the country since the establishment of the Republic of Turkey in 1923.

History

The Grand National Assembly was established in the midst of the Turkish War of Independence as a revolutionary body to represent the Turkish people against the occupying forces and the Ottoman Empire. The first meeting was held in Ankara, which later became the capital of the new republic. The Assembly played a crucial role in the foundation of the Republic of Turkey, abolishing the Ottoman Sultanate in 1922 and declaring the Republic on 29 October 1923.

Structure and Function

The Grand National Assembly is a unicameral body consisting of 600 members, known as deputies, who are elected for a term of five years. The elections are based on a system of party-list proportional representation, which allows for a wide representation of political parties in the Assembly.

Legislative Process

The legislative process in the Grand National Assembly involves several stages:

1. Proposal: A bill can be proposed by any member of the Assembly or by the government.
2. Committee Review: The bill is reviewed by relevant committees, which may amend or reject it.
3. General Assembly Debate: The bill is debated in the General Assembly, where further amendments can be made.
4. Voting: The bill is put to a vote. If it passes, it is sent to the President for approval.
5. Presidential Approval: The President can either approve the bill, veto it, or send it back to the Assembly for reconsideration.

Committees

The Assembly has several standing committees that focus on specific areas such as foreign affairs, finance, and education. These committees play a vital role in shaping legislation and overseeing government activities.

Political Parties

The Grand National Assembly is characterized by a multi-party system. Major political parties include the Justice and Development Party (AKP), the Republican People's Party (CHP), the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), and the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP).

Role in Government

The Grand National Assembly holds significant power in the Turkish political system. It is responsible for enacting laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch. The Assembly also has the authority to declare war and ratify international treaties.

Speaker of the Assembly

The Speaker of the Grand National Assembly is a key figure who presides over sessions, ensures the orderly conduct of business, and represents the Assembly in its relations with other state organs and foreign parliaments.

Also see

• President of Turkey
• Prime Minister of Turkey
• Constitution of Turkey
• Turkish War of Independence
• Republic of Turkey