Canada is a representative democracy, where citizens elect members of Parliament (MPs) to represent them in the House of Commons.

When and why do elections take place?

• By constitutional rule: According to Canada’s Constitution, a federal election must be held at least once every five years. This gives Canadians the chance to consider whether the government should stay in power.
• A question of confidence: The government must maintain the support of a majority of members in the House of Commons. If it loses an important vote known as a confidence vote, it loses that support, and an election may be called.