Suchergebnisse

Reviews and discusses `The dynamics of European party systems: Changing patterns of electoral volatility', which appeared in vol.7 (1979), pp.1-26 of this journal. Includes a comment by the original author.

Analyzes the parliamentary electoral reform & the results of the 1994 parliamentary election in Italy, drawing on empirical secondary data. The Apr 1994 electoral reform referendum was extremely influential in shaping the parliamentary reforms that ultimately created a new set of incentives for parties & candidates by eliminating the necessity for small parties to nominate their own candidates in the uninomial districts. It is suggested that these reforms were designed to increase the governability of Italy, increase the transparency of the electoral process, renew the membership of parliament, & increase the representation of women. While the reforms increased the participation of women in politics & produced a radical renewal of parliamentary personnel, it is argued that they did not increase governability or transparency in the electoral process. It is concluded, however, that the permanent impact of the reforms will be known only after a period of learning, transition, & consolidation. 7 Tables, 8 References. D. M. Smith

The paper examines the perceptions that representatives and would-be representatives have of their roles as MEPs, what accounts for those differences and what impact they have on MEP behaviour. Three dimensions of role differences were identified. Two of them, AGENT and TRUSTEE can be found in most assemblies but a third, a federal/confederal distinction, is perhaps peculiar to the EU. Individual attitudes to Europe explained this one quite well, nationality explained differences on the AGENT dimension and left-right position provided some explanation for differences on the TRUSTEE role. The combination of role perceptions appear to have some impact on MEPs' activities. (European Journal of Political Research/ FUB)

Until recent years, 2 major trends in European politics--the growth of state services and increased political participation--have complemented the central role of parties. Argues that this complementarity may have started to come unstuck, and questions the future viability of the mass party as a result of a shift in the balance of perceived advantages of the mass party by both leaders and members. (Abstract amended)