Paper Title
ELECTORAL INSTITUTIONS: DYNAMICS, DEVELOPMENT, AND REPRESENTATION IN DEMOCRATIC FRAMEWORKS

Abstract
Electoral institutions, which consist of the rules, laws, and norms governing electoral politics, play a crucial role in shaping the democratic process. They determine how votes are cast, counted, and translated into political power, influencing the overall dynamics of governance and representation. This paper examines various electoral systems, including majoritarian, proportional, and mixed models, discussing their advantages, disadvantages, and the different outcomes they produce. It highlights the role of political parties, electoral laws, and social cleavages in shaping party structures and voter representation. The paper also delves into the relationship between electoral institutions and economic development, analyzing how systems influence policy-making and economic outcomes. It argues that while proportional representation systems often promote broader representation and inclusivity, they may also lead to coalition governments that complicate policy implementation. Conversely, majoritarian systems typically yield more stable single-party governments but may marginalize smaller parties and minority voices. Furthermore, the impact of electoral institutions on women's representation is explored, noting that proportional systems generally lead to higher female representation in legislatures compared to majoritarian ones. The paper underscores the significance of electoral reforms and affirmative action in enhancing women's participation and addressing the gender imbalance in politics.