Parliament of Egypt facts for kids

The Parliament of Egypt, officially known as the House of Representatives, is the main group of people who make laws in Egypt. Its name in Arabic is Arabic: مجلس النواب, which sounds like Magles en-Nowwab.

Right now, it's a unicameral legislature. This means it has one main group or "chamber" of lawmakers. However, there are plans to add a second chamber called the Senate, following a vote in 2019.

What is the Parliament of Egypt?

The Parliament of Egypt is a very important part of the Egyptian government. It is where elected representatives from all over Egypt come together. These representatives speak for the people who voted for them. Their main job is to discuss and create laws for the country.

Who are the Members?

The members of the Parliament are called Members of Parliament, or MPs. They are chosen by the citizens of Egypt through elections. When people vote, they pick the person they believe will best represent their interests and help make good decisions for the country.

What Does the Parliament Do?

The Parliament has several key roles that help Egypt run smoothly.

Making Laws

One of the most important jobs of the Parliament is to create new laws. They also change old laws or remove them if they are no longer needed. Every new law must be discussed and approved by the members. This process makes sure that laws are fair and helpful for everyone.

Watching the Government

The Parliament also keeps an eye on the government. They make sure that the government is doing its job well and following the laws. Members can ask questions to government ministers and hold them accountable for their actions. This helps to ensure that the government works for the people.

Approving Budgets

Another big task is to approve the country's budget. The budget is a plan for how the government will spend money. The Parliament reviews this plan carefully. They make sure that money is spent wisely on things like schools, hospitals, and roads.

Representing Citizens

Each Member of Parliament represents a specific area or group of people. They bring the concerns and ideas of their voters to the Parliament. This way, the voices of ordinary citizens are heard in the law-making process.

How Does the Parliament Work?

The Parliament usually meets in a special building in Cairo, the capital city of Egypt. During their meetings, members debate different ideas and proposals. They vote on new laws and other important decisions.

Debates and Decisions

When a new law is proposed, members discuss it thoroughly. They might agree or disagree on certain parts. After discussions, they vote. If enough members vote "yes," the law is passed. This process ensures that decisions are made carefully and with input from many different viewpoints.

Working with the President

The Parliament works closely with the President of Egypt. While the Parliament makes laws, the President signs them into effect. The President also suggests new laws for the Parliament to consider. This teamwork helps to keep the country organized and moving forward.

A Brief Look at History

Egypt has a long history of having a parliament or similar body. Over the years, the way the Parliament works has changed. But the idea of having elected representatives make decisions for the country has been important for a long time. These changes reflect how Egypt has grown and developed as a nation.