The federal government includes the Prime Minister and Cabinet. Government members are members of parliament. The Parliament buildings are located in Ottawa. The laws passed in parliament are implemented by different federal departments.

Queen Elizabeth II is Canada's official head of state. She is represented in this country by the Governor General at the federal level and the Lieutenant Governors at the provincial level. All federal legislation must receive the assent of the Governor General, within the parameters of the Canadian constitution. This is what makes Canada a constitutional monarchy.

Local governments are elected regularly to manage municipalities, cities, towns and regions. Local governments do not have constitutional powers, but rather have functions delegated to them by other levels of government. Mayors, councillors and school board officials, for example, are elected to their positions directly. Usually, they do not formally represent political parties.

All individuals and organizations in Canada, including Parliament, are bound by the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. All individuals and organizations are also bound by the laws of Parliament. Law enforcement agencies throughout the country, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, have the responsibility of ensuring universal compliance with the laws of Parliament.