Election day has started in Romania, the citizens of the country are voting for the parliament. Sections opened at 7:00 pm and will be open until 9:00 pm. local (and Bulgarian) time.
18,008,480 Romanians have the right to vote in the country and over 989,000 abroad, according to data from the Permanent Electoral Authority. Voting abroad already started on Friday.
10,000 people or thirty one parties and unions, as well as 19 organizations of national minorities, including the Bulgarian association, took part in the elections. The most candidates came from the Social Democratic Party (639), the Romanian SOS (636) and the National Liberal Party (630).
Seats in parliament are allocated depending on the share of votes received in each constituency. 43 represent the constituencies, which correspond to the 41 counties in the country, the municipality of Bucharest and the constituencies for the Romanian diaspora. Each constituency is defined to represent a specific geographical area, and the number of seats allocated to each constituency is proportional to the number of residents.
In each constituency, one representative should be broadcast for every 73,000 inhabitants, and for senators, the norm is one senator for every 168,000 inhabitants.Therefore, 329 deputies should be elected in the Chamber of Deputies (the lower house of the Romanian Parliament) this year, and 136 Senators in the Senate (the upper house).
The electoral threshold is 5 percent for a party; 8 percent of a two-party union; 9 per cent – for a union made up of three parties and 10 per cent in the case of unions with more than three parties.
the parliamentary elections coincide with Romania’s national holiday – Unification Day. On December 1, 1918 600 deputies and 628 representatives of cultural and public organizations vote for the unification of the regions of Transylvania, Krishana, Satmar, Maramures and Banat with Romania, including Bukovina and Bessarabia./BTA
what role do overseas voters play in shaping the outcomes of Romania’s elections?
Interview with Dr. Elena Ionescu: An Expert on Romanian Politics and Electoral Systems
Editor: Good day, Dr. Ionescu, and thank you for joining us today as Romania heads to the polls for its parliamentary elections. With over 18 million Romanians eligible to vote, what can you tell us about the meaning of this election?
Dr. Ionescu: Thank you for having me. This election is crucial not only as it shapes the future political landscape of Romania but also because it coincides with Unification day, a significant ancient milestone for the country. On December 1,1918,the unification of various regions with Romania was voted on,and now,105 years later,citizens are again asserting their voices in a pivotal democratic process.
Editor: Indeed, and speaking of participation, we certainly know that approximately 10,000 candidates across 31 parties and unions are competing. How does this diverse participation impact the election outcome?
Dr. Ionescu: The involvement of numerous parties and candidates indicates a vibrant democratic spirit. However, it also raises the importance of understanding the electoral threshold, which is 5 percent for a single party and goes up to 10 percent for larger unions. This can fragment the vote if parties fail to reach these thresholds, potentially leading to a parliament that reflects a wide array of opinions but lacks cohesion.
Editor: That’s an significant point. Can you elaborate on how parliamentary seats are allocated and what this means for representation?
Dr. Ionescu: Certainly. Seats in the Romanian parliament are allocated based on the proportion of votes received in each of the 43 constituencies,tailored to represent specific geographical areas. such as, there is one deputy for every 73,000 inhabitants in the Chamber of Deputies and one senator for every 168,000 in the Senate. This ensures that diverse regions of Romania, including the Romanian diaspora, are adequately represented.
Editor: With such a large number of voters, both domestically and abroad, how do you see the impact of overseas voting initiated on Friday?
Dr. Ionescu: The ability for over 989,000 Romanians living abroad to participate in elections is revolutionary. It not only strengthens democracy but also ensures that expatriates have a say in policies that may affect them, especially regarding their home country’s socio-economic conditions. This inclusion could potentially sway election results, showcasing the global Romanian community’s influence.
Editor: Among the candidates, the Social Democratic Party, Romanian SOS, and the National Liberal Party are prominently represented. How might this competition shape Romania’s political future?
Dr. Ionescu: Each of these parties has distinct platforms that will resonate differently with voters. The competition among them could either foster collaboration or deepen divides,depending on their willingness to work together post-election. It is indeed essential for them to focus on issues that matter to citizens, like economic recovery, healthcare, and education, rather than merely political power play.
Editor: Before we conclude, what practical advice would you give to readers as they navigate this election?
Dr. Ionescu: I would encourage all eligible voters to research candidates and parties carefully, understanding not just their promises but also their track records. Engage in discussions, attend debates, and know the voting process, including the importance of the electoral thresholds and constituency representation. Every vote matters, and informed citizens can drive meaningful change.
Editor: Thank you,Dr. Ionescu, for your insights into these significant elections. It’s vital for every Romanian to understand the weight of their vote today.
Dr. Ionescu: Thank you for having me. Let’s hope for a peaceful and constructive electoral process!