The Electoral System as the Key Factor of the Party System in Spain
The Electoral System as the Key Factor of the Party System in Spain

Summary/Abstract: The article analysed the electoral system in elections to the Spanish Congress, its proportionality and impact on the shape of the party system. It is based on the assumption that long-standing dominance of two political parties is the result of settings of the electoral system. The main aim was to identify the key factors that influence the final results of elections. By analysis of the individual components of the electoral system, the paper identified the size of constituencies in combination with the electoral formula that have key impact on election results. Based on quantitative data the text showed that the adjustment of the system does not generate two party system format. However, under certain circumstances it can produce results with a significant disproportionality. The article also explained the institutional factors that allow the relevant representation of parties in third and fourth place. By knowing the facts, paper reviews previous theories that pointed to the direct closeness of the electoral system and the Spanish form of the two party system.

• Details
• Contents