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Separation of powers is a cornerstone of any robust democratic system, designed to prevent the concentration of power in the hands of any one individual or branch of government. This vital principle ensures a balance of authority and prevents tyranny by dividing governmental functions into distinct, yet interdependent, branches: the legislative, executive, and judicial.
In practical terms, this separation is institutionalized through a system of checks and balances.
Each branch possesses specific powers and limitations, preventing any one branch from dominating the others. The legislative branch can propose laws, but the executive branch has the power to veto them. The judiciary can strike down laws deemed unconstitutional, while the executive branch appoints judges.
This intricate system of checks and balances prevents any one branch from becoming too powerful and ensures that each branch remains accountable to the others. This interconnectedness ensures that the government operates within a framework of shared responsibility and accountability, safeguarding the core principles of democracy and protecting individual liberties.
In the Republic of China (Taiwan), there exist two additional branches of government (the Control Yuan and the Examination Yuan), which provide further checks within the government institutions.
We ought to pay special attention of attempts at obstruction of justice by one branch (legislative or executive) over the judiciary.
Separation of powers refers to the division of a state's government into "branches", each with separate, independent powers and responsibilities, so that the powers of one branch are not in conflict with those of the other branches.