Political Parties Worldwide — Glossary

An independent body responsible for overseeing the conduct, fairness, and logistics of elections to ensure integrity and public trust.

The adherence to democratic principles and fairness in the conduct of elections, including transparency, accuracy, and freedom from fraud or coercion.

The degree of change in voting patterns or party support between elections within a political system.

A situation where political parties or branches of government cannot agree, preventing lawmaking or [Policy Implementation](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/policy-implementation).

The stability and strength of political parties and their relationships within a political system over time. High institutionalization promotes predictable politics.

The distribution of resources or favors by politicians to supporters in exchange for political support. It can undermine democratic fairness and accountability.

An election held to select a party's candidate for a subsequent general election.

A party official or elected leader who has a vote in selecting a party's presidential nominee, independent of primary or [Caucus](https://modeldiplomat.com/learn/glossary/caucus) results. Common in some party systems like the US Democrats.

A party system dominated by two major political parties.

The percentage of eligible voters who participate in an election by casting a ballot.