Physics
How Coalition Agreements Constrain Policy-Making in Multi-Party Governments
Quick fact
Coalition agreements often specify detailed policy for up to hundreds of points, and governments that deviate from them risk losing parliamentary support, potentially triggering early elections. In many countries, these agreements are not legally binding but are politically and publicly enforced.
Why this is interesting
Have you ever wondered why coalition governments rarely introduce sweeping, radical reforms? The answer lies in the invisible handcuffs they voluntarily put on themselves.