Outline the basic functions performed by a modern government.

Basic functions performed by a modern government

1. Maintenance of law and order. Government makes laws and uses the police, courts and prisons to protect life and property and keep internal peace.
2. Defence and external security. It maintains the armed forces to protect the state's territory and sovereignty against external aggression.
3. Provision of social services. Government supplies education, health care, water, housing and welfare that citizens cannot easily provide for themselves.
4. Provision of infrastructure. It builds and maintains roads, bridges, electricity, communication and other public utilities that support economic activity.
5. Regulation of the economy. Through fiscal and monetary policy, taxation, budgeting and trade regulation, government manages the economy and promotes development.
6. Administration of justice. It establishes courts to settle disputes, interpret the law and punish offenders impartially.
7. Conduct of external relations. Government represents the state abroad, signs treaties, exchanges diplomats and pursues the national interest.
8. Protection of citizens' rights. It guarantees and safeguards the fundamental human rights and freedoms of the people.
9. Revenue generation. Government raises revenue through taxes, levies and duties to finance its activities.