Electoral reform – Cui bono? Attitudes of Romanian MPs to the electoral system change

Gherghina, S. , Stefan, L. and Chiru, M. (2013) Electoral reform – Cui bono? Attitudes of Romanian MPs to the electoral system change. Journal of Legislative Studies, 19(3), pp. 351-369. (doi: 10.1080/13572334.2013.812347)

Abstract

Drawing on an original parliamentary survey, an analysis is undertaken of what motivates MPs elected in a closed proportional representation (PR) setting to consider changing this electoral system. Moves in this direction are quite rare and for this reason a case study of Romanian parliamentarians is proposed. Bivariate and multivariate statistical techniques are used to assess the impact of both power maximisation incentives and values. The main findings indicate that MPs were willing to replace the closed-list PR with a single member district alternative only when they perceived clear benefits for them (that is, re-election) or their party (that is, a positive impact, either at intra-party level or within the party system). These self-interested motivations are prioritised over nomination-related reasons and the possibility of a constituency-centred focus of representation.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Gherghina, Dr Sergiu
• Authors: Gherghina, S., Stefan, L., and Chiru, M.
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Politics
• Journal Name: Journal of Legislative Studies
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis (Routledge)
• ISSN: 1357-2334
• ISSN (Online): 1743-9337
• Published Online: 23 July 2013