What is Coalition?

Definition and meaning of coalition:  A coalition is a formal alliance between two or more political parties or groups that agree to work together to achieve common goals. Coalitions are often formed to increase political influence, advance shared policy objectives, or challenge the dominance of larger parties within a political system.

In politics, coalitions can be crucial in forming a government, especially in parliamentary systems where no single party has a majority. Because there’s strength in numbers, smaller parties can collectively achieve greater legislative power than they could individually. 

Unlike multi-party systems in other democracies, coalitions in the United States are often formed within legislatures, where members from different parties or interest groups form caucuses or committees to collaborate and pass specific legislation. These coalitions can be temporary, lasting only as long as it takes to pass a bill, or more permanent, focusing on long-term policy goals. 

For example, the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus works together to promote or denounce legislation related to issues within that community. The Sustainable Energy & Environment Coalition promotes policies that support clean energy innovation and combat climate change. 

Coalition-building is also a strategy that can be used by reform-minded groups, independent candidates, and minor parties to challenge the status quo. For example, the Green Party and the Libertarian Party could theoretically band together to promote policies that advance their goals or share a mutual benefit to their supporters. By uniting diverse groups with common interests, coalitions can create a broader base of support and increase the chances of enacting meaningful change, whether at the local, state, or national level.