Spain is a parliamentary monarchy, with the head of state being the King Juan Carlos 1. Thereis also a President, with the political and economic power held by the government. The King'sprimary mission is to arbitrate and moderate the regular functioning of the country's institutions inaccordance with the Constitution. He also formally ratifies the appointment or designation of thehighest holders of public office in the legislative, executive and judicial branches.
The country is divided into 17 autonomous regions or provinces. Each region has a RegionalPresident, who reports directly to the President of the Government. The bicameral parliament iselected under proportional representation. It is formed by a 348-seat Congress of Deputies and a 257-seat Senate. General elections are held every four years.