Head of State
The chief public representative of a country, which may be a ceremonial or executive role depending on the system.
Explanation
The head of state is the person who officially represents the country at the highest level. In presidential systems (US, Brazil), the head of state is also the head of government — the president holds both roles. In parliamentary systems (UK, Germany, Japan), the head of state (monarch or ceremonial president) is separate from the head of government (prime minister). In these systems, the head of state performs ceremonial duties — receiving ambassadors, signing legislation, and symbolizing national unity — while real executive power belongs to the prime minister. In semi-presidential systems (France), the head of state has genuine executive power alongside the prime minister.
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