Introduction
A hung parliament occurs when no single political party has an outright majority after an election, resulting in a situation where no party can form a government without the support of other parties. This often leads to a period of uncertainty and negotiations to form a coalition government.
Explanation
In a parliamentary system, the majority of seats in the legislature is needed to form a government and pass laws. When no party wins a majority of seats, a hung parliament is declared. This can happen for various reasons, such as a closely contested election, the rise of smaller parties, or a split vote among the major parties.
Examples
One recent example of a hung parliament was the 2017 UK general election, where the Conservative Party failed to win a majority and had to form a coalition with the Democratic Unionist Party to govern. Another example is the 2010 Australian federal election, which resulted in a hung parliament and a minority government led by the Labor Party.
Case Studies
During a hung parliament, negotiations between parties become crucial to determine the future government. This can lead to compromises on policies and a more collaborative approach to governing. In some cases, it can also result in instability and frequent elections if the coalition government is unable to function effectively.
Statistics
According to data from around the world, hung parliaments are becoming more common due to the fragmentation of political landscapes and the rise of populist movements. In recent years, countries like Italy, Spain, and Israel have also experienced hung parliaments, leading to prolonged periods of uncertainty and political gridlock.
