Deputy
Person authorized to act on behalf of a higher-ranking individual
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Through Hierarchy, Canada and Political party
Etymology
The term deputy comes from the word deputāre meaning 'to destine, to allot' in Late Latin and 'to esteem, to consider (as), and "literally" to cut off, prune' in the Classical Latin form. Around the middle ages the word deputāre came to refer specifically to the appointment of a person to act on behalf of another. It evolved c. 14th century to députer meaning 'to appoint, to assign' in Old French and then to deputé c. 15th century meaning 'a subordinate officer given the full power of an officer without holding the office'. The word deputy came into the English language c. 16th century and originally referred to various types of appointed officials; from high ranking officials to local assistants. The word deputy as we know it now comes from c. 1769.
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Responsibilities
Although deputies are themselves subordinates, they exercise authority over junior positions within the hierarchy of an organization or company. A deputy is often called upon to make decision which directly influence outcomes and policies, as such they typically possess specialized training and qualifications akin to their superior.
Uses around the world
Canada
In Canada, specifically in Quebec where they speak French, they call their Members of Parliament, particularly those in the House of Commons députés. Their work consists mostly of, representing an electoral district as well as their political party, responding to the needs of their voters and proposing, debating on, and passing or denying different bills.
Communist states
All elected officials, bar Yugoslavia (from 1974 onwards it used the term delegates), have referred to elected representatives as deputies to the supreme state organ of power in question.
France
In France députés, or deputies in English, are elected to represent different electoral districts; they form the French National Assembly, and together with the Senators; who form the Senate, they make up the French Parliament. They, along with the senators propose, debate on and vote in favour of, or against different bills; they also hold the French Government accountable.
United Nations
Within the United Nations' senior leadership system, there are Deputy Special Representatives who are appointed by the Secretary General of the United Nations. They along with the Special Representatives represent him in meetings and during negotiations. They also assist the UN Security Council in addressing situations that threaten international peace and security.