Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

Distributive politics involves allocating government resources to specific groups or regions to gain political support without broad policy reforms.

Deliberate design or reform of electoral systems to influence political outcomes or party systems.

A parliamentary procedure where a minority delays or blocks legislation by extending debate, often used in legislatures with strong minority rights. It can affect democratic decision-making.

Drawing electoral district lines specifically to protect current officeholders and reduce competition.

A system of politics based on practical objectives and power considerations rather than ideological notions or moralistic premises.

A term popularized in political discourse to describe a large group of people who do not express their opinions publicly but hold significant influence.

Decisions by potential candidates to run or not based on calculations about winning chances and vote splitting.

A voter who does not have a strong allegiance to any political party and can be persuaded to vote for different parties in different elections.