Gendering Parliamentary Representation: A Mixed System Producing Mixed Results

Abstract

New Zealand is one of a growing number of countries that has adopted, in recent times, a mixed electoral system. New Zealand’s Mixed Member Proportional system (MMP) is derived largely from the German model and was first employed in the 1996 national election. However, given that proportional representation is a relatively new development in New Zealand, an analysis of women’s parliamentary representation necessarily requires a discussion of the plurality system that preceded the advent of MMP. Focusing on what has happened under two quite contrasting electoral systems provides useful insights into the extent to which electoral systems are mediated by other factors in affecting the representation of women. Moreover, New Zealand’s new electoral system has retained a plurality component, meaning proportionality in itself may not ensure gender parity in parliamentary representation. Rather, the structure and culture of political parties and their selection processes remain key indicators of women’s chances of success in New Zealand.