Checks and balances are a system within a government designed to prevent any one branch from becoming too powerful. Each branch—executive, legislative, and judicial—has specific powers and responsibilities that enable it to monitor and limit the functions of the others. For example, while the legislative branch makes laws, the executive can veto proposals, and the judiciary can declare laws unconstitutional. This interplay ensures accountability, promotes transparency in governance, and maintains the integrity of the democratic process by safeguarding against abuse of power.