Diplomacy & Politics Glossary

The idea that elected officials should physically resemble the demographic characteristics of their constituents.

The uneven distribution of voters across electoral districts, causing some votes to carry more weight than others. It can distort representation and election outcomes.

Electoral quotas mandate a minimum percentage or number of candidates from underrepresented groups, such as women or minorities, in elections to promote diversity.

A system where citizens elect representatives to make policy decisions on their behalf rather than voting on laws directly.

An electoral district where the majority of constituents belong to racial or ethnic minority groups, often to enhance minority representation.

This theory holds elected officials should act according to the wishes of their constituents who gave them a mandate through election. It contrasts with the trustee model where officials use their judgment independently.