Misstrauensvoten

Misstrauensvoten (from misstrauen and votum) is a parliamentary procedure in which a legislature expresses loss of confidence in the government or in one or more ministers. When such a vote passes, the government typically must resign or be replaced, either by forming a new cabinet or by calling new elections. In some systems a “constructive” misstrauensvotum requires the legislature to propose a successor for the office at the same time.

Forms and consequences vary by country. Some legislatures can dismiss the government by a simple majority without naming a replacement; others require a constructive misstrauensvotum, where the vote for a new candidate accompanies the withdrawal of support.

Germany: The Basic Law provides a constructive vote of no confidence. The Bundestag may depose the Chancellor only if it simultaneously elects a successor by absolute majority. If the Bundestag fails to elect a successor within a specific period, the President may dissolve the Bundestag and call new elections.

Austria: The National Council can pass a motion of no confidence against the Chancellor or the government. Once adopted, the government resigns and a new cabinet must be formed, typically with the President appointing a Chancellor who must obtain parliamentary confidence.

Switzerland: The Federal Assembly can pass a vote of no confidence against the Federal Council. Adoption typically leads to the resignation of the Federal Council and the formation of a new federal executive or elections, depending on constitutional rules and political realities.