Elections and Voting Systems

Free and Fair Elections

elections in which citizens can vote freely and results reflect the people’s true choices.
It is significant because it ensures democratic legitimacy.

Electoral System

the method used to convert votes into political seats or offices.
It is significant because it affects representation and election outcomes.

First Past the Post (FPTP)

an electoral system in which the candidate with the most votes wins.
It is significant because it is simple but can disadvantage smaller parties.

Proportional Representation

an electoral system in which parties gain seats according to the proportion of votes received.
It is significant because it creates fairer representation of voters.

Constituency

an electoral area represented by an elected official.
It is significant because it connects voters with representatives.

Turnout

the percentage of eligible voters who vote in an election.
It is significant because high turnout shows strong political participation.

Mandate

the authority given to a government by voters to carry out policies.
It is significant because it gives legitimacy to political decisions.

Gerrymandering

the manipulation of political district boundaries to favor a party.
It is significant because it can weaken democratic representation.

Electoral Fraud

illegal interference in the electoral process to influence results unfairly.
It is significant because it damages trust in democracy.

Referendum

a direct vote by citizens on an important political issue.
It is significant because it allows direct public decision-making.