Privy council facts for kids

A privy council is a special group of people who give advice to a country's leader, like a king or queen, or a head of state (the main person in charge of a country). The word privy means 'private' or 'secret'. So, a privy council was originally a secret group of the leader's closest advisors. They would give private advice on important matters of the country.

What is a Privy Council?

A privy council is like a team of trusted advisors. Their main job is to help the country's leader make important decisions. They often deal with official government business and sometimes even help create new laws or rules. These councils have been around for a very long time, helping leaders manage their countries.

Where are Privy Councils Found Today?

Many countries around the world still have privy councils. They might have different names, but their main purpose is similar: to advise the head of state. Here are some examples of countries that use them today:

• United Kingdom: The His Majesty's Most Honourable Privy Council advises the King.
• Canada: The King's Privy Council for Canada advises the King's representative, the Governor General, on Canadian government matters.
• Denmark: The Danish Council of State helps the monarch with government decisions.
• Thailand: The Privy Council of Thailand advises the King of Thailand.
• Japan: While the main Privy Council was abolished, the Emperor still has advisors.
• Spain: The Spanish Council of State advises the King and the government.

These councils show how different countries use similar ideas to help their leaders govern.

A Look Back: Privy Councils in History

Privy councils have a long and interesting history. Many countries that used to have kings or emperors had these councils to help them rule. For example, the Privy Council of England was very important for the kings and queens of England for many centuries. When England and Scotland joined to form Great Britain in 1707, their privy councils also joined to become one.

Over time, as governments changed and became more democratic, some privy councils became less powerful or were even abolished. However, their history shows how important trusted advisors have always been to leaders.

See also

In Spanish: Consejo privado para niños

• Council of State
• Crown Council
• Executive Council (Commonwealth countries)
• State Council