Representative voting—also called ‘proportional representation’—is a system of electoral representation where the percentage of responsibility or representation a workforce member is granted is directly proportional to the number of votes received. This system is standard in workplace elections in some parts of the world. It helps to avoid situations where one candidate or group has absolute victory in elections.
Representative voting differs from more straightforward electoral systems. In a more traditional electoral system, the candidate with the most votes wins, and all other candidates cannot gain any representation or influence. Other candidates may have represented smaller or marginalized groups and received votes from those groups, but those voices remain unrepresented because they did not attain a majority vote.
Proportional representation can take many different forms. Some systems combine proportional representation with elements of first-past-the-post or other electoral systems. Hybrid voting or mail-in ballot systems can be used for this type of voting system.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different types of proportional representation voting systems that exist and discuss the strengths and weaknesses of each.
In this system, voters choose a representative group (such as a political party), and representation is allocated to candidates on that group’s pre-determined list in proportion to the number of votes received. However, critics argue that having a list of pre-approved candidates is not the most fair interpretation of democracy.
Like a closed list, voters choose a group and can vote for individuals on that group's list. The candidates with the most individual votes move up the list and are more likely to gain representation. Proponents of this system argue that it gives voters more control over who they want to represent them.
In this system, voters rank candidates by preference rather than voting for just one candidate. Candidates must meet a quota to be elected, and votes from eliminated candidates are transferred to voters' second or third choice. This system ensures that a significant proportion of voters get their preferred candidate.
Through this method, even smaller groups with significant voter support can gain representation in the workplace, making the elected body more representative of the electorate. Therefore, if how to calculate voter participation is a concern, and you are seeking to increase voter numbers, this more ‘democratic’ process can help achieve this aim.
In elections where a majority vote seals absolute representation, a vote for a group or candidate that fails to win can be considered wasted. With proportional representation, these votes can still contribute to other candidates gaining representation. This also means a more diverse range of perspectives can influence workplace decision-making. Does an undervote count? In most proportional representation elections, the answer is no–this also means fewer wasted votes.
Proportional representation provides outside candidates with a greater chance of representation. However, remember that the different forms of proportional representation come with their strengths and weaknesses. Proportional representation systems should consider the values and priorities of the electorate and aim to balance representation, stability, and fairness at all times.
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