Who has the power in a monarchy?

Answer 1

Depending on the type of monarchy, the individual (or group) who holds actual political power varies.

In absolute monarchies, the monarch wields unchecked authority over the sovereign domain. Typically, such governments operate under the idea that the power of the ruler is a divine right. Current examples of this form of government include Vatican City, where the Pope is the absolute monarch.

In constitutional monarchies, monarchs are usually restricted in their powers, and must adhere to guidelines set by a national constitution of some sort. It is common (especially in modern-day constitutional monarchies) for the monarch's position to be a symbolic figurehead. In such cases, actual power is vested in the parliament, usually headed by a prime minister (or equivalent position). Current examples of constitutional monarchies include the United Kingdom and Sweden.

Rarely, there have also been cases of elective monarchies, where the monarch is voted into office. Elective monarchies can be either absolute or constitutional, but political power is usually based upon the electorate (historically, nobles and upper-class families). Current examples include Malaysia, an elective constitutional monarchy.

Answer 2

A king or queen (the monarch, or single ruler)

Answer 3

None.