Legal Literacy - Electoral system is an important element in democracy. This article discusses various electoral systems in the world, systems that are suitable for Indonesia, and considerations in choosing the right system.
What is electoral system?
An electoral system is a method used to elect people's representatives and political leaders in a country. This system determines how the people's votes are converted into seats in the legislative body and executive positions.
What are the election systems that exist in the world?
There are several electoral systems commonly used in the world, including:
1. Proportional System:
This system allocates seats in the legislative body based on the proportion of votes obtained by each political party. In this system, the people's votes are calculated based on the votes obtained by political parties, and seats are distributed to political parties in proportion to those votes.
Types of proportional systems:
Closed List Proportional System:
- Voters choose a political party.
- Seats are allocated to political parties based on the proportion of votes obtained.
- The order of candidates on the party list determines who will get the seat.
Open List Proportional System:
- Voters choose a political party and individual legislative candidates.
- Seats are allocated to political parties based on the proportion of votes obtained.
- Legislative candidates with the most votes within their political party will get the seat.
2. District System:
This system allocates one seat in the legislature for each electoral district. The candidate who receives the most votes in each district will win the seat.
Types of district systems:
First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) System:
- The candidate who receives the most votes in each district will win the seat.
- This system does not always produce a winner who obtains a majority of the votes.
Two-Round System:
- If no candidate obtains a majority of the votes in the first round, a second round is held between the two candidates with the most votes.
- This system ensures that the winner obtains a majority of the votes.
3. Mixed System:
This system combines elements of proportional and district systems.
Types of mixed systems:
Mixed-Member Proportional (MMP) System:
- Seats are allocated to political parties based on the proportion of votes obtained.
- Additional seats are allocated to ensure that the proportion of seats in the legislature reflects the proportion of votes obtained by political parties.
District Proportional System (DPS):
- Seats are allocated to the winners in each district.
- Additional seats are allocated to political parties based on the proportion of votes obtained.
The best electoral system for a country depends on various factors, such as the country's political history, culture, and social structure.
what electoral system is suitable for Indonesia?
Determining an electoral system suitable for Indonesia is a complex issue that has been debated for a long time. Each system has its advantages and disadvantages, and no system is perfect.
Considerations in choosing a system
Here are some considerations in choosing the right electoral system:
1. Representation:
Proportional systems are considered more representative because they can accommodate votes from various groups in society.
A district system can produce winners who do not represent the majority of votes in an area.
2. Accountability:
The district system is considered to better enhance the accountability of elected officials to their constituents due to a clearer relationship.
A proportional system can weaken accountability because votes are divided among political parties.
3. Political stability:
A proportional system can encourage coalitions between political parties and result in more stable governance.
A district system can produce stronger governments with a majority party, but potentially trigger political polarization.
4. Cost:
Proportional systems are generally more expensive than district systems because they require more complex logistics.
5. Political culture:
Based on Political Culture
The electoral system that is suitable for a country also depends on its political culture.
The following are some electoral systems being considered for Indonesia:
1. Open Proportional System:
This system is currently used in Indonesia.
Advantages:
- Provides voters with the freedom to choose legislative candidates individually.
- Increases the accountability of legislative candidates to their constituents.
Disadvantages::
- Triggers money politics and campaigns that focus on individuals, not political parties.
- Weakens the ideology of political parties.
2. Closed Proportional System:
Advantages::
- Strengthens the ideology of political parties.
- Minimizes money politics and individual campaigns.
The disadvantages:
- It limits voters' choices in selecting legislative candidates.
- It strengthens the oligarchy of political parties.
3. District System:
Advantages:
- It strengthens the relationship between elected officials and their constituents.
- It increases the accountability of elected officials.
The disadvantages:
- It is less representative of minority groups.
- It has the potential to trigger political polarization.
4. Mixed System:
This system combines elements of proportional and district systems.
Ultimately, there is no single answer to determine the ideal electoral system for Indonesia. The decision must be made based on careful consideration and consensus from various parties, including civil society, political parties, and academics.
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