Final answer:
A coalition government is formed when multiple political parties join forces to create a majority in the legislature. This allows for shared governance and representation of a wider range of interests, but can be prone to instability if disagreements arise among coalition partners.
Step-by-step explanation:
A coalition government is formed when two or more political parties join together to form a majority in the legislature or parliament, especially when no single party has enough seats to govern by itself. This kind of government enables multiple parties to cooperate and form a cabinet, with the intention of creating a more stable and viable governing body. However, coalition governments can be fragile, as they may fall apart if one party decides to withdraw from the coalition.
There are several reasons why parties might want to be part of a coalition government. Being in a coalition allows smaller parties to have a voice in government and even be part of the decision-making process, rather than being in opposition with little influence. On the other hand, parties may be reluctant to enter into coalitions because they often have to compromise on their policies and objectives to reach a common ground with other coalition parties, which can lead to internal conflicts and make the government less stable.
Political stability and policy stability can vary in coalition governments. While they can be advantageous in reflecting a broader range of public opinion and providing a platform for minor parties, they can also suffer from frequent policy changes and instability if coalition partners disagree, potentially leading to a government's collapse.