- The term "hemicycle" means:
In legislatures terms, a hemicycle is a semicircular, or horseshoe-shaped, debating chamber (plenary chamber), where deputies (members) sit to discuss and pass legislation.
The United Kingdom, which is the originator of the Westminster system, does not use a hemicycle. However, two of the three devolved legislatures, the Scottish Parliament and Welsh Assembly, do use hemicycles; the Northern Ireland Assembly does not use a hemicycle format.
The European Parliament in 2006, began operating in a hemicycle from its foundation in 1958, based on European traditions.
It is also used by Toronto City Council, the Senate of France and Hong Kong's Ledgco.