The Imprint of Political Ideologies on the Composition of the Legislative – the Electoral Systems of Romania in the 20th Century

Abstract

Throughout the 20th century, Romania has experienced profound social, economic, and political transformation, each leaving its mark upon the nation’s constitutional framework. Among the most striking manifestations of these changes is the evolution of the electoral system, which has consistently sought to reflect and adapt to prevailing political currents. These electoral mechanisms have played a pivotal role in shaping the composition of the political elite, employing various methods to influence its formation. This contribution endeavours to scrutinise the distinctive characteristics of these electoral systems, with particular focus on the methods by which the political elite has been moulded over time. The principal instruments employed in the 20th century to influence the composition of the Romanian legislature included age requirements, wealth census (i.e. property qualification or property-based voting qualification), special electoral procedures, professional and occupational criteria, and exclusion from political rights.