House of Councillors (Japan) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids House of Councillors参議院 Sangiin |
|
|---|---|
 |
|
| Type | |
| Type | |
| Leadership | |
|
Toshio Ogawa, CDP (caucus: independent)
Since 1 August 2019 |
|
| Structure | |
| Seats | 245 |
 |
|
|
Political groups
|
Government (141)
Opposition (104)
|
| Elections | |
| Parallel voting: Single non-transferable vote (147 seats) Party-list proportional representation (98 seats) Staggered elections |
|
|
Last election
|
21 July 2019 |
|
Next election
|
2022 |
| Meeting place | |
 |
|
| Chamber of the House of Councillors | |
| Website | |
| www.sangiin.go.jp | |
The House of Councillors (called Sangiin in Japanese) is like the "upper house" of Japan's parliament, known as the National Diet. Think of it as one of two main groups that make laws for the country. The other group is the House of Representatives, which is the "lower house."
The House of Councillors has 245 members. These members are called Councillors. They serve for six years, which is two years longer than members in the House of Representatives. To become a Councillor, a person must be at least 30 years old. In the House of Representatives, members can be 25 years old.
Contents
What is the National Diet?
The National Diet is Japan's main law-making body. It is made up of two parts: the House of Councillors and the House of Representatives. Both houses work together to create and pass laws for Japan.
How Members Are Chosen
Members of the House of Councillors are chosen in a special way. Some are elected from different areas of Japan, like states or regions. Others are elected based on a national list of political parties. This mix helps make sure that both local areas and different political groups are represented. Elections for the House of Councillors happen every three years. Only half of the members are elected at one time. This is called a "staggered election." It means there are always experienced members in the House.
Leaders of the House
The House of Councillors has a leader called the President. The President's job is to make sure meetings run smoothly. They also help keep order during debates. The current President is Akiko Santō. There is also a Vice President, Toshio Ogawa, who helps the President.
Political Groups
Inside the House of Councillors, members belong to different political groups or parties. These groups work together to support or oppose new laws. The main groups are:
- Government (141 members): These parties usually support the current government.
- LDP (113 members)
- Kōmeitō (28 members)
- Opposition (104 members): These parties often challenge the government's plans.
- CDP & DPFP & SDP & Affiliated Independents (61 members)
- Ishin (16 members)
- JCP (13 members)
- Reiwa (2 members)
- Hekisuikai (2 members)
- Your Party (2 members)
- Independents (6 members)
See also
In Spanish: Cámara de Consejeros de Japón para niños
