Influence of the local context on voting behavior in Czechia

Abstract

There are significant differences in voting behavior among municipalities and regions in parliamentary elections in Czechia. In the following study we concentrate on the influence of local context on voting behavior. We studied 10 municipalities and regions with a specific voting behavior that does not correspond to the expected voting behavior – according to the socio-demographic characteristics of the population. Using qualitative data analysis (focus groups and in-depth interviews), we focused on causes of voting behavior that are difficult to reveal through quantitative methods. According to the analysis, the socio-economic structure of the inhabitants of the regions, together with the influence of family, family history, traditions, and experiences shaped by the historical development of the region, have significant impact on political socialization and voting behavior. Local politics and local politicians also have some influence. At the same time, there are noticable differences between individual municipalities and regions representing different party families.