THE EVOLUTION OF ELECTORAL SYSTEMS: HOW MODERN STATES SHAPE PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of electoral systems in the context of the development of parliamentarism as an institution of democracy. It examines the transformation of models–from ancient forms of direct popular sovereignty to modern majoritarian, proportional, mixed, and alternative systems in various countries, taking into account historical and cultural specifics. The author analyzes the contributions of classic political thinkers–Jean-Charles de Borda, Nicolas Condorcet, Kenneth Arrow, Maurice Duverger, Robert S. Katz, Giovanni Sartori, Geoffrey B. Powell, Nils-Christian Bormann, and Michael Golder–which helps trace the genesis and political consequences of electoral models. A global trend is identified toward the shift from majoritarian to proportional and mixed systems, especially in countries that underwent political transformations in the late 20th and early 21st centuries. An interdisciplinary approach is applied to explain the impact of electoral mechanisms on the quality of democratic representation, legitimacy, political inclusiveness, and accountability of power. It is shown that the parliament is the main space for reconciling the interests of various social groups, and the effectiveness of its work depends on the design of the electoral system, political culture, and adherence to democratic procedures.Classic systems are analyzed: the First-Past-The-Post (FPTP) majoritarian system; the Two-Round System (TRS) of absolute majority; and the List Proportional Representation (List PR). Special attention is given to mixed systems that combine personalized and party representation. Alternative models such as Alternative Vote (AV), Block Vote, Single Non-Transferable Vote (SNTV), and Single Transferable Vote (STV) are also described. Regional features of system distribution and tendencies toward mixed models in countries with high political competition are demonstrated. In conclusion, it is proven that the electoral system shapes the parliamentary structure, influences the party system, political stability, and social trust. The author employs institutional, historical, and comparative approaches to outline global trends and national specifics of electoral architecture.