First Lady

:For the term in Italian opera, see Prima donna

Duties and ceremony

While the traditions and expectations of a First Lady vary by country and have changed significantly over time, they typically include responsibilities such as:

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• hosting during receptions at the Presidential Palace
• presiding over selected welfare institutions
• accompanying the spouse in official travels abroad
• ceremonial duties.

Since the First Lady is not an elected or appointed official, she can not be impeached. For this reason, no country explicitly grants the role of the First Lady with any formal governmental authority. Any authority granted to the First Lady is derivative of the president's authority.

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Several First Ladies have, however, exerted considerable power and influence over the course of government despite the lack of a legal mandate. They have exercised personal and charismatic authority and have, in some cases, been the de facto head of state acting in the name of their spouse. That use of power has also been a frequent source of controversy and scandal when discovered.

Related Topics:
Charismatic authority - De facto - Head of state

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