A constitutional monarchy is a form of government where a monarch's powers are limited by a constitution or laws of the land. The monarch typically serves a symbolic role, while actual governance is carried out by democratically elected officials. Key functions of the monarchy may include ceremonial duties and serving as a unifying figure for the nation. In such systems, the balance of power generally favors a parliamentary system, where the legislature holds authority over policymaking. This arrangement ensures that the government operates democratically, with the monarch as a non-partisan figurehead.