the three powers of government
Refers to the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Often used in discussions of the separation of powers.
三権分立は民主主義の基本原則だ。
The separation of the three powers is a fundamental principle of democracy.
日本国憲法は三権の独立を保障している。
The Constitution of Japan guarantees the independence of the three powers.
In Japan's political system, the three branches of government are separated.
The constitution is designed to maintain a balance among the three branches of government.