Differences between Civilian Government and Military Government

In a civilian administration, authority is exerted and apportioned in a different way than in a military one. Elected officials in a civilian administration are normally in charge and answerable to the people they serve. The leaders of the armed forces in a military regime may or may not be answerable to the populace at large.

The military’s involvement in society is another major contrast between civilian and military rule. The military in a civilian administration is usually viewed as an independent institution that exists to defend the country from foreign aggression. On the other hand, with a military administration, the military is frequently prioritized above civilian leaders.

The third key distinction between civilian and military administrations concerns the decision-making process. Generally speaking, decisions in a civilian government are determined through a democratic process, with elected individuals acting as the people’s voice. It is common for a small number of military officers to make decisions in a military administration, with or without input from civilian authorities or the public.

The safeguarding of personal liberties is a fourth key distinction between civilian and military rule. Rights and liberties of citizens are safeguarded by an impartial court and guaranteed by a written constitution or other legal instrument in a civilian government. Freedoms and rights of citizens may be curtailed in the name of national security or other considerations under a military rule.

The fifth and final distinction is the method in which each type of government deals with foreign nations. The principal methods of dispute resolution under a government run by civilians are usually diplomacy and negotiation. However, with a military government, the use of force to settle disputes may be more common, perhaps leading to a more belligerent approach abroad.