The dynamics of the party system in Spain in the light of the general elections Cover Image

The dynamics of the party system in Spain in the light of the general elections
The dynamics of the party system in Spain in the light of the general elections

Author(s): Petra Měšťánková
Subject(s): Government/Political systems, Electoral systems, Comparative politics
Published by: Prešovská univerzita v Prešove, Filozofická fakulta, Inštitút politológie
Keywords: elections;electoral volatility;government;party system;polarization;Spain

Summary/Abstract: This study examines the transformation of the Spanish party system, particularly in the context of the July 2023 general elections. Over the last decade, the party system has become more fragmented and polarized. From a two-party format, the contest has gradually turned into a competition between two blocs: the right and the left. The July 2023 general elections showed that the party system has partially stabilized, with the mainstream parties (PP and PSOE) recovering, but not enough to form a single-party government. Support from regional parties remains essential for forming a central government. However, the possibilities for cooperation between political parties are limited by the nature of the party blocs, and the high degree of ideological and social polarization.

  • Issue Year: 12/2023
  • Issue No: 2
  • Page Range: 5-23
  • Page Count: 19
  • Language: English