Politics of the Cook Islands takes place in a framework of a parliamentary representative democratic associated state, whereby the Chief Minister is the head of government, and of a pluriform multi-party system. The Islands are self-governing in free association with New Zealand and are fully responsible for internal affairs.

New Zealand retains some responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands. In recent years the Cook Islands has taken on more of its own external affairs and as of 2005 has diplomatic relations in its own name with 18 other countries. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is vested in both the government and the Parliament of the Cook Islands. The Judiciary is independent of the executive and the legislature.

The monarch is hereditary; her representative is appointed by the monarch. The New Zealand high commissioner is appointed by the New Zealand Government. The cabinet is chosen by the prime minister and collectively responsible to Parliament. Ten years of rule by the Cook Islands Party (CIP) came to an end 18 November 1999 with the resignation of Prime Minister Joe Williams.

Williams had led a minority government since October 1999 when the New Alliance Party (NAP) left the government coalition and joined the main opposition Democratic Party (DAP). On 18 November 1999, DAP leader Dr. Terepai Maoate was sworn in as prime minister. He was succeeded by his co-partisan Robert Woonton. When he lost his seat in the 2004 elections, Jim Marurai took over.

Legislative branch

The Parliament of the Cook Islands has 25 members, elected for a five year term in single-seat constituencies.