Comparative Elections
The BBC headline about today's election in Iran was, Iranians vote in general electionThe article went on to say, "Voting has been taking place in Iran, with conservatives expected to win after opponents of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad were barred from running."
It continued, "The BBC's Tehran correspondent Jon Leyne says a lack of choice, due to widespread disqualifications of reformist candidates, could discourage Iranians from voting.
"With the field narrowed, he says, the only question is how seats will be shared out between competing conservatives..."
With all the publicity about an election that's not very open, it's an opportunity for a case study.
Back in 2005, the Russian Duma changed the election law, and the BBC reported on it this way:Duma backs Russia election reform
"Russian MPs have approved a crucial second reading of a controversial law which could increase the Kremlin's control over parliament.
"The bill, which is expected to be adopted, would change the way parliamentary deputies are elected.
"Members of the lower house, the Duma, would be chosen by proportional representation, with parties needing 7% of the vote to get seats.
"Critics say it will be almost impossible for liberals to be elected..."
What similarities and differences could your students identify? Is one of these electoral systems more democratic? more representative? more legitimate? Why?
See also:
- Q&A: Iran parliamentary election
- Iran's Elections
- A New Parliament, but Still All Putin?
"The Kremlin is taking no chances. With Mr. Putin’s blessing, the existing Parliament, or Duma, spent much of 2006 preparing for the elections by tightening laws. It abolished minimum turnout requirements and the option of voting “against all.” New election rules also barred candidates from criticizing the authorities in office or even encouraging a vote against an opponent."
Labels: elections, Iran, Russia
posted by Ken Wedding @ 9:32 AM
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