Bring out the features of Federation Assembly of the Russian Federation.

Features of the Federation Assembly of the Russian Federation

The Federation Assembly of the Russian Federation is the federal legislature of Russia, consisting of two chambers: the Federation Council and the State Duma. Established under the Constitution of Russia, the Federation Assembly plays a pivotal role in legislative processes, federal governance, and representing the interests of Russia's regions and citizens.

1. Composition and Structure:**

The Federation Assembly is bicameral, comprising two chambers:

• Federation Council: The upper chamber of the Federation Assembly consists of representatives from Russia's federal subjects (regions). Each federal subject sends two representatives to the Federation Council: one from the regional executive branch (usually the governor) and one from the regional legislature. This arrangement ensures regional representation and participation in federal decision-making.

• State Duma: The lower chamber of the Federation Assembly is composed of 450 deputies elected through a mixed electoral system. Half of the deputies are elected from party lists based on proportional representation, while the other half are elected from single-member constituencies. The State Duma is responsible for enacting federal laws, approving the budget, and overseeing the executive branch.

2. Roles and Responsibilities:**

• Legislative Authority: The Federation Assembly is responsible for adopting federal laws, amending the constitution, and ratifying international treaties. Both chambers participate in the legislative process, with bills typically initiated in the State Duma and reviewed and amended by the Federation Council.

• Representation of Regions: The Federation Council represents Russia's federal subjects and ensures their interests are considered in federal legislation. It also approves appointments of federal judges, prosecutors, and other key officials.

• Oversight and Control: Both chambers of the Federation Assembly exercise oversight over the executive branch, including the President and the government. They scrutinize government activities, conduct investigations, and hold hearings to ensure accountability and transparency.

3. Election and Appointment Process:**

• Federation Council: Members of the Federation Council are not directly elected by the public but are appointed or elected by regional legislatures and executives. The composition of the Federation Council reflects the diversity of Russia's regions and ensures their participation in federal decision-making.

• State Duma: Deputies of the State Duma are elected through a mixed electoral system. Elections occur every five years, with parties competing for seats based on their share of the national vote and in constituencies. The electoral process is supervised by the Central Election Commission to ensure fairness and transparency.

4. Powers and Functions:**

• Lawmaking: The Federation Assembly has the authority to adopt federal laws on various matters, including taxation, defense, foreign policy, and social welfare. Legislation must be approved by both chambers and signed by the President to become law.

• Budget Approval: The State Duma plays a crucial role in approving the federal budget and financial plans submitted by the government. It ensures that government spending aligns with national priorities and fiscal responsibility.

• Constitutional Amendments: Both chambers of the Federation Assembly have the power to propose amendments to the Constitution of Russia. Amendments require a rigorous process of approval by both chambers, regional legislatures, and often a national referendum.

5. Relationship with the Executive Branch:**

• Checks and Balances: The Federation Assembly exercises checks and balances over the executive branch, ensuring that government actions are lawful and serve the interests of the Russian people.

• Confirmation and Oversight: The Federation Council confirms key appointments made by the President, including ministers, judges, and heads of federal agencies. It also conducts hearings and investigations to oversee executive activities and policies.

Conclusion:

The Federation Assembly of the Russian Federation plays a crucial role in Russia's democratic governance, legislative processes, and representation of regional interests. Through its two chambers, the Federation Council and the State Duma, it ensures federal laws reflect the diverse needs of Russia's regions while upholding national unity and constitutional principles. The Federation Assembly's functions encompass legislative authority, oversight of the executive branch, and safeguarding Russia's constitutional framework, contributing to the country's political stability and democratic development.