Spanish Political Landscape: From UCD’s Demise to PP’s Rise
The Decline of the UCD and the Rise of New Parties
The Union of Democratic Center (UCD) experienced very poor results, which led to its demise as a political force. Adolfo Suarez attempted to revive the political center by establishing the Social Democratic Center (CDS).
The Communist Party and the Left
The PCE’s parliamentary representation was reduced to four deputies, causing its historic leader to resign. This led to a major crisis within the Communist Party. Mid-decade, a coalition of leftist
Read MoreRise of the Nazi Party in Germany: 1929-1933
The Rise of the Nazi Party in Germany: 1929-1933
When the effects of the 1929 crisis began to be felt, large landowners, industrialists, the main sectors of the army, and President Hindenburg himself sought a substitute for the Social Democrat Hermann Müller in the Chancellery. In 1930, Heinrich Brüning, a former official and parliamentary leader of the Zentrum, was appointed. He inaugurated the presidential government, relying on the extraordinary powers provided in Article 48, provided that the
Read MoreUnderstanding Proportional Electoral Formulas and Thresholds
Proportional Electoral Formulas
Proportional electoral formulas aim to distribute seats proportionally to the votes received by each competing force in a constituency. This system helps to avoid inequalities and ensures that each political party’s representation aligns with its actual support.
In our electoral system, achieving perfect proportional representation is challenging. The legislature could choose between various organic formulas that offer proportionality, but currently, the Dhondt formula
Read MoreUnderstanding Political Regimes: Democracy and Non-Democracy
Political Regimes
There are different political regimes in the world. Some are democratic, and others are non-democratic. Each state manages its territory following a series of rules and institutions that apply laws. Democracy is the most widespread regime.
Democracy
It is based on the principles of individual liberty and equality before the law. It advocates the separation of powers:
- Legislative power: Has the mission of making and passing laws.
- Judicial power: Has the function of administering justice
Understanding Political Systems and Human Rights
Elections: Regularly scheduled and free elections allow the citizens of a country to select their rulers and lawmakers.
Mixed-Member Proportional System: Voters cast two ballots (local and national candidate list) to ensure the parliament is made up of both local and national representatives.
Interest Group: An organization that seeks to influence legislators on behalf of a particular cause or interest; it may have a local, national, or international basis. Examples include The Council of Canadians
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