METAMORFOSIS

The choice of electoral system is one of the most important decisions that any political party can be involved in. Supporting or choosing an inappropriate system may not only affect the level of representation a party achieves, but may threaten the very existence of the party. But which factors need to be considered in determining an appropriate electoral system?

This publication provides an introduction to the different electoral systems which exist around the world, some brief case studies of recent electoral system reforms, and some practical tips to those political parties involved in development or reform of electoral systems. Each electoral system is based on specific values, and while each has some generic advantages and disadvantages, these may not occur consistently in different social and political environments. There is no ‘ideal’ electoral system that fits every environment. But they do have one thing in common: for a successful and sustainable electoral system development or reform process, it is crucial to involve the broadest section of society possible, rather than the ruling elites only.

2.1 What Is Electoral Engineering?
There has been increasing use of the term ’electoral engineering’ to describe the development and implementation of constitutional and legal provisions for electoral systems frameworks that are targeted at achieving specific societal goals. The more ‘engineering’ that has been done, the greater the realisation has been that the results are not always what have been intended.

In emerging democracies, the unsettled nature of party culture and systems, and the electoral system complexity that often arises out of the compromises necessary for post-conflict or post-authoritarian regime settlements, can intensify this unpredictability.

What are the key concepts and objectives of electoral engineering? What do political parties need to be aware of when they become involved in electoral system oriented constitutional and legal reforms – and in assessing expert advice on these?

By : Alan Wall and Mohamed Salih
Original Sources : NIMD
The complete local copy of article can be download here (.pdf)