The Proportional Electoral Systems in the Western Balkans Countries: A Comparative Approach

Abstract

Representative democracy is closely related to elections and voting. Electoral systems can influence not just the number of minority candidates elected but also how majority parties seek to appeal to or marginalize minority voters, and how inclusive candidate lists will be. Electoral systems can be defined and categorized concerning - How many representatives are elected from each constituency? Is the formula used a plurality, majority, or type of proportionality? What is the threshold for representation for parties and candidates? These elements determine the seats in the parliament and the winning parties. This paper does not aim to be an exhaustive one about the wide topic of electoral systems. It aims at presenting an overview of electoral systems in Western Balkans, focusing on the presentation of the main features of the proportional electoral systems in these countries. Proportional representation systems are applied in the countries under consideration, therefore analytical and comparative research will be the focus of the paper. From the short comparative analysis of this paper on the electoral systems in the countries of the Western Balkans, similarities and differences between them are observed. As a result, we will try to understand which of the criteria and formulas used provides better representation and governance for these countries.

Received: 25 September 2023 / Accepted: 26 October 2023 / Published: 23 November 2023