coalition

Intermediate 🏛️ Government / Politics

Definition

A temporary alliance of political parties, groups, or nations formed to achieve a common goal — emphasis on temporary, because these marriages of convenience rarely last. Essential in parliamentary systems where no single party has a majority, forcing rivals to play nice and share power. The political equivalent of frenemies working together on a group project.

Example Usage

After the election, the center-left party formed a coalition government with the greens.

Source: Political terminology via provided definition

Related Terms