Comparing the Governments of Saudi Arabia Iran and

Comparing the Governments of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Israel: Islamic Republic of Iran Kingdom of Saudi Arabia State of Israel

Parliamentary Democracy of Israel: • Upon reaching 18, both men and women can vote. • Citizens vote for 120 members of Parliament (law makers). • The head of government is the Prime Minister who is chosen by members of Parliament. • Israel uses a unitary system where the central government handles most government functions.

Personal Freedoms/Rights- Israel • Freedom of speech and the media – citizens are allowed to criticize the govt. • Men and women have equal rights!

Which country has a democratic form of government where both men and women over 18 years old vote for representatives? 1. Saudi Arabia 2. Israel 3. Iran

The head of government in a Parliamentary System is chosen by: 1. Citizens voting in a separate election from the legislature. 2. By legislators (other members of Parliament)

Theocracy: The government of Iran • Iran’s government is based on the religion of Islam. • Men and women 18 and over vote for a president. • An assembly of religious experts appoints the Supreme Leader of Iran also known as an ayatollah. • The Supreme leader has more power than the president.

Personal Freedoms/Rights-Iran • Citizens cannot criticize the government or its leaders • Legal system is based on Sharia law system • No freedom of speech or press • Must follow strict social and religious rules

What is a theocracy? 1. A type of democracy. 2. A government based on religion. 3. A government based on a supreme leader.

Iran is a(an) _______, because only a small group of “religious experts” actually chooses the leader. 1. 2. 3. 4. Autocracy Presidential Democracy Oligarchy

The Monarchy of Saudi Arabia • Saudi Arabia is ruled by a king or monarch. • The king inherits the right to rule. • Men 21 and older may vote but only on certain issues approved by the king. • Saudi Arabia is an autocratic government King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia

Personal Freedoms/Rights- Saudi Arabia • Citizens cannot criticize the government or its leaders • Legal system is based on Sharia law system • No freedom of speech or press • Must follow strict social and religious rules

The King is not elected and makes all final decisions concerning laws. This is an example of: 1. 2. 3. 4. Democracy Autocracy Oligarchy Theocracy