checks and balances, Principle of government under which separate branches are empowered to prevent actions by other branches and are induced to share power. Checks and balances are applied primarily in constitutional governments.

Checks and balances, in the context of government systems, are mechanisms put in place to ensure that no single part of the government has absolute power. The goal is to promote accountability, prevent corruption, and maintain a fair governance system. This system of checks and balances is typically found in democratic governments worldwide.