Efficiency of the Semi-Presidential System.
The two countries that are most famous for using the Semi-Presidential system are Russia and France. France's semi-Presidential system was enacted in 1958, when a threat of civil war broke out over Algeria. French leaders invited General de Gaulle to set up what is now called the "Fifth Republic." After the fall of the Soviet Union, Russia was in need of setting up a new government. Beginning in 1990 and lasting till 1993 the Russian Government went through a transition period, where they eventually formed a government that is similar to the French "Fifth Republic." Both of these systems have advantages and disadvantages, overall they have proven effective and are finally providing stability to countries that are in desperate need for long lasting efficient governments.
A main reason for the success of the Semi-Presidential system in France is France's heterogeneous population. Frances's population is currently around 59 million, of this 59 million France has more than 3.6 million foreigners who come mostly from North Africa. "In addition 1.8 million French citizens are foreign born" (Textbook, Almond p.223). .
A stable form of government is not a concept that is familiar in France. Since the fall of the Bastille in 1789, the French government has undergone sixteen constitutions. The governments became more notoriously remembered for their instability than any of their past accomplishments. De Gaulle's constitution was the first to offer solutions to any of previous problems the French Government had encountered. The President of France would now receive more power and become a "visible head of state" (Textbook Almond p.225). The President with agreement from Parliament, can call for new referendums and at any time after consulting with the Prime Minister, the President can get rid of the current Parliament and call for new elections.
