Each provincial and territorial government has an elected legislature where provincial and territorial laws are passed. The members of the legislature are called members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), members of the National Assembly (MNAs), members of the Provincial Parliament (MPPs), or members of the House of Assembly (MHAs), depending on the province or territory.*
Municipal governments hold elections usually every 3–4 years. Candidates usually do not represent political parties. The head of a municipal government is called the Mayor or Reeve. Councillors are elected to sit with the Mayor on the municipal Council to govern. Municipal governments provide most local services such as water, sewage, snowplowing, fire, police, and public transit.*
Canadian law secures the right to a secret ballot. This means that no one can watch you vote and no one should look at how you voted.You may choose to discuss how you voted with others, but no one, including family members, your employer or union representative, has the right to insist that you tell them how you voted.*
The head of the federal government—the Prime Minister—is the leader of the political party that wins the most seats in a federal election.To win a “majority,” a political party needs to win 50% of the 308 federal “seats.” Since there are more than two parties, a “minority” government is possible. Learn more See page 210 for the Government of Canada web site.*
In elections, candidates appeal to voters to try to win their votes.To vote, a person must be on the official voters list as well as being a Canadian citizen and at least 18 years old on voting day. (Contact your local government offices if you have questions.) Voters on the voting list will receive a notice in the mail prior to the election telling them where they vote.*
Canada has three levels of government: federal, provincial or territorial, and municipal. Canada is a federation with a parliamentary system of government.Those serving in government at the federal and provincial level represent political parties that are voted into office by Canadians during elections. Municipal politicians are elected by voters and are not necessarily affiliated with political parties.*
Human rights laws protect the rights and freedoms of people living in Canada. These rights and freedoms are important and are highlighted on the next few pages. Human Rights Commissions help to protect human rights. Learn more*