Introduction

Elections are the foundation of democracy. They give citizens the power to choose their leaders and influence the direction of their country. 

However, the way in which elections are conducted varies widely from country to country. In recent years, many nations have seen changes and innovations in their electoral systems to improve fairness, transparency, and participation.

Let’s explore how elections work in different countries and what trends have emerged globally in recent years.

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1. United States – Electoral College and Popular Vote

In the United States, presidential elections happen every four years. The election is indirect; citizens vote for a group of electors who then elect the president. 

This system is called the Electoral College. Each state has a certain number of electoral votes based on its population. A candidate must get at least 270 out of 538 votes to win.

Recent elections have highlighted debates over voter ID laws, mail-in voting, and election security. Technology and misinformation have also become critical issues.

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2. United Kingdom – First-Past-the-Post System

In the UK, elections are held using the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system. Citizens vote for a candidate in their local area (constituency), and the candidate with the most votes wins. 

The party that wins the most seats in the House of Commons forms the government.

Recent elections have been influenced by Brexit, changes in party leadership, and increased voter engagement among youth.

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3. India – World’s Largest Democratic Election

India conducts the world’s largest democratic election. Citizens elect members of the Lok Sabha (Lower House) every five years. 

The election follows the FPTP system in 543 constituencies.

In recent years, elections in India have used Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) and Voter Verified Paper Audit Trails (VVPATs) to increase transparency. 

Voter turnout has also increased, especially among women.

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4. Germany – Mixed-Member Proportional Representation

Germany uses a mixed electoral system that combines direct voting and proportional representation. Voters cast two votes: one for a local candidate and another for a political party. 

This system aims to balance local representation with overall fairness in party power.

Recent elections have seen a shift toward green politics and a decline in traditional parties’ influence.

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5. France – Two-Round Voting System

France elects its president through a two-round system. If no candidate gets more than 50% in the first round, a second round is held between the top two candidates. 

This system ensures that the winner has broad support.

Recent elections have focused on issues like immigration, inflation, and European Union relations.

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6. Brazil – Electronic Voting and Runoffs

Brazil uses an electronic voting system and a two-round method for presidential elections. The system is known for its speed and transparency. 

All citizens aged 18 to 70 are required by law to vote.

In recent years, concerns about disinformation and political violence have shaped public discussions.

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7. Japan – Combination of FPTP and Proportional Representation

Japan's elections involve a hybrid system where voters choose candidates in local districts (FPTP) and also vote for political parties (proportional representation). 

The House of Representatives is elected every four years.

Recent trends show a rise in voter apathy among the youth and calls for electoral reforms.

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8. South Africa – Proportional Representation

South Africa uses a proportional representation system where voters choose a party, not a candidate. 

The party's share of votes determines how many seats they get in parliament.

Recent elections have focused on corruption, service delivery, and economic inequality.

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9. Australia – Preferential Voting

Australia uses preferential voting, where voters rank candidates in order of preference. 

This system helps ensure that elected officials have majority support.

Compulsory voting has led to high participation rates. Elections are often seen as fair and well-managed.

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10. Bangladesh – Parliamentary Elections

• 400 seats will be elected through the First-Past-the-Post (FPTP) system, as currently practiced. In this method, the candidate with the most votes in each constituency wins.

• 100 seats will be filled using the Proportional Representation (PR) system. In this method, political parties will receive seats based on the total percentage of national votes they receive. This aims to make the parliament more representative of public opinion.

The introduction of the PR system is expected to:

• Encourage smaller parties to gain fairer representation.

• Strengthen multi-party democracy.

• Reflect a broader range of public views in policymaking.

This change marks a significant step in electoral reform and aims to make elections in Bangladesh more inclusive and democratic.

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Global Election Trends in Recent Years

• Use of Technology: Many countries have introduced electronic voting, digital ID verification, and online voter registration.

• Rise in Youth Participation: Young voters are becoming more active globally, especially on issues like climate change and social justice.

• Concerns Over Disinformation: Fake news and election interference have led to stricter monitoring and cybersecurity improvements.

• Push for Electoral Reforms: Movements for fairer systems like proportional representation are gaining momentum in many democracies.

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Conclusion

Elections reflect the values and structure of each nation. While systems differ, the common goal remains: giving people a voice in how they are governed. 

Understanding how elections work around the world helps us appreciate the strengths and challenges of modern democracies.