Germany's Constitutional Court Rules on Electoral Reform

Germany's Federal Constitutional Court has ruled that the proposed electoral law reform by Chancellor Olaf Scholz's coalition is partially unconstitutional, specifically rejecting the abolition of the basic mandate clause. This clause allows parties that win three direct mandates to enter the Bundestag even if they do not meet the 5% threshold in second votes, a provision that benefited the Left Party in the last election. The court's decision, expected to be officially announced soon, emphasizes the need for proportional representation within the parliamentary system. The reform aimed to reduce the size of the Bundestag and eliminate overhang and equalization mandates but was challenged by parties including the Christian Social Union and the Left Party. As a result of the ruling, the basic mandate clause will remain in place for upcoming elections, maintaining opportunities for smaller parties despite the reform's other provisions. The court's action highlights the balancing act required to maintain fair representation in Germany's complex electoral landscape.