Proportional representation

Definition

Proportional representation is an electoral system that aims to ensure that the number of seats won by a political party in a legislature is proportional to the number of votes received by that party. This system contrasts with winner-takes-all approaches, promoting inclusivity and reflecting a wider spectrum of public opinion in the parliamentary structure. By allowing smaller parties to gain representation, it enhances the role of diverse political views and encourages coalition governments.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New Zealand adopted the Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system in 1996, moving away from the previous first-past-the-post system.
2. Under MMP, voters have two votes: one for a local candidate and another for a political party, making it more representative of diverse views.
3. Proportional representation can lead to coalition governments since no single party may gain an outright majority, encouraging collaboration among parties.
4. The threshold for parties to enter Parliament under MMP is currently set at 5% of the party vote or winning an electorate seat.
5. This electoral system has contributed to the rise of smaller parties in New Zealand, enhancing their ability to influence policy and governance.

Review Questions

• How does proportional representation influence the composition and functioning of Parliament?
  • Proportional representation significantly influences Parliament's composition by ensuring that parties gain seats in accordance with the votes they receive. This leads to a more diverse legislature where smaller parties can have a voice alongside larger ones. Consequently, it often results in coalition governments where multiple parties must work together, impacting decision-making processes and policy outcomes.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of adopting a proportional representation system like MMP in New Zealand.
  • Adopting MMP has several advantages, such as increased representation for smaller parties, which reflects a broader spectrum of public opinion. It can lead to more inclusive governance and encourage collaborative policymaking. However, disadvantages include potential instability due to coalition governments and challenges in forming effective partnerships among diverse parties, which may complicate decision-making and slow down legislative processes.
• Assess the impact of proportional representation on political party dynamics and voter engagement in New Zealand.
  • Proportional representation has transformed political party dynamics in New Zealand by empowering smaller parties and diversifying the political landscape. Voter engagement has also increased as citizens see their preferences reflected more accurately in Parliament. This system encourages higher voter turnout since individuals feel their votes carry weight, knowing that even small parties can influence governance, resulting in a more active and involved electorate.

Related terms

Mixed Member Proportional (MMP): A hybrid electoral system used in New Zealand that combines proportional representation with single-member districts, allowing voters to cast two votes: one for a candidate and one for a party.

Party List: A list provided by political parties detailing candidates who will fill seats allocated to them based on the proportion of votes they receive in an election.

Threshold: A minimum percentage of votes that a political party must receive to gain representation in the legislature, designed to prevent excessive fragmentation of the party system.