The Politburo is a key decision-making body in a communist party, particularly associated with the former Soviet Union. It consists of the top leaders of the party and is responsible for setting policies and making important political decisions. The term is short for "Political Bureau," and it plays a crucial role in the governance of the state. In the context of the Soviet Union, the Politburo was established in the early 20th century and became the central authority during the leadership of figures like Joseph Stalin. Other communist countries, such as China and Vietnam, also have similar bodies that function in a comparable manner within their political systems.