2. On the delimitation of constituencies

The current Election Code stipulates one nationwide constituency, with a proportional distribution of seats. As stated in a previous joint opinion:

“Very few countries are electing the Parliament in one constituency only. In Europe the Netherlands represent a prominent exception. In most other countries there is a degree of geographical representation secured by elections held in a number of constituencies. If a country is rather uniform in terms of population or other relevant criteria, elections in one constituency may work well. It will then be up to the parties to secure the geographical representation when compiling their lists of candidates. However, when minorities are concentrated in certain areas, constituencies can be the most effective instruments for securing reasonable minority representation in the Parliament.”[1]

[1] CDL-AD(2003)001, para. 17.