Electoral systems and their political consequences. A special case: Turkey

Abstract

Recent debates and comments in the Turkish mass media, especially after the last municipal elections-i.e. after the unexpected victory of the religious-based Welfare Party (RP) and the failure of the centre parties-are concentrated on the need of a new electoral system. However, there does not exist a consensus between the main actors, political parties. While some believe that the country needs an electoral system which will bring governability, stability and order, some others insist on the importance of full proportionality of an electoral system. Accordingly, in this study, the electoral systems theory is described. That is, history, categorisation, operation and political consequences of electoral systems are elaborated. Next, the historical development and implications of electoral systems in Turkey are observed. Of course, the debates that took place in times of electoral reform-including the recent ones- are studied in depth. Finally, the limited number of electoral reform alternatives and related discussions are introduced.