Paikkavalinnan

Paikkavalinnan is a term used in Finnish political science to denote the process by which parliamentary seats are allocated after elections. It refers to how votes translate into seats and how those seats are distributed among electoral districts and filled by individual candidates, within a proportional representation framework.

Common methods for paikkavalinnan include proportional representation with district-level seat allocation, typically using the D’Hondt method, although some systems use the Sainte-Laguë method. In Finland, the D’Hondt method is used within each electoral district to convert party votes into district seats, after which the seats are filled by candidates based on personal vote totals within each party list.

Process details: Elections are organized in multiple electoral districts; the law specifies how many seats each district receives. Votes are tallied, seats allocated to parties using the chosen method, and then individual candidates are elected according to their personal votes and the party’s list. The overall result determines the composition of the legislature.

Legal framework and variations: Paikkavalinnan is governed by national electoral law and related regulations. The Finnish system features open party lists, allowing voters to influence both party seat shares and candidate ranking. Thresholds and district size create practical barriers to seat acquisition for smaller parties, shaping paikkavalinnan outcomes.

See also: Vaalit (elections), Vaalilaki (Election Act), D’Hondt method, Sainte-Laguë method, Electoral district, Proportional representation.