Proportional representation

Byron Weber Becker + Sharon Sommerville

Party list pr-example total seats

Preferential ballot

Mixed compensatory example fptp

Mixed-compensatory-example compensatory seats

Mixed-compensatory-example total seats

Template:Electoral systems

Proportional representation (PR) is an electoral system in which parties gain seats in proportion to the number of votes cast for them. This system aims to create a representative body that reflects the overall distribution of public support for each political party. Proportional representation contrasts with majoritarian and plurality voting systems, where the winning candidate or party may not necessarily represent the majority of voters.

Types of Proportional Representation[edit | edit source]

There are several types of proportional representation systems, including:

Party-list Proportional Representation[edit | edit source]

In a party-list proportional representation system, voters cast their ballots for a party rather than individual candidates. The parties then receive seats in proportion to their share of the vote. This system can be further divided into closed list and open list systems.

Mixed-member Proportional Representation[edit | edit source]

Mixed-member proportional representation (MMP) combines elements of proportional representation and first-past-the-post voting. Voters typically have two votes: one for a party and one for a local candidate. The overall composition of the legislature is adjusted to ensure proportionality.

Single Transferable Vote[edit | edit source]

The single transferable vote (STV) is a proportional representation system where voters rank candidates in order of preference. Seats are allocated through a process of transferring votes according to voters' preferences until all seats are filled.