herstemming

Herstemming is a term used in Dutch-speaking political and organizational contexts to refer to the act of holding a new vote on a matter that has already been decided. The term combines a prefix meaning “again” with stemming, which relates to voting or decision by vote. It is distinct from a general election and is typically used to describe internal decision processes within legislatures, municipal councils, corporate boards, or other deliberative bodies.

Usage and purpose of herstemming vary by jurisdiction and organization. It is generally considered in situations where the initial outcome is viewed as illegitimate, uncertain, or affected by procedural irregularities, or when new information has become available that could change the decision. The decision to hold a herstemming is not automatic; it usually requires a formal trigger such as a motion, a rule-based provision, or a minimum level of support, and must comply with established quorum and procedural requirements.

Process and rules differ across bodies. In some systems, a proposal for a re-vote is debated and voted on, after which the original matter may be reconsidered or again put to a vote. In others, the re-vote may only proceed if a supermajority or a specific threshold is met. The exact sequence, time limits, and whether a re-vote can overturn a previous outcome depend on the governing rules or statute of the institution involved.

Relation to elections and broader governance varies. Within elections, formal re-voting is typically governed by separate electoral law, while herstemming within organizations or legislatures concerns internal decisions and governance rather than public elections.

See also: voting, legislative procedure, recall, referendum.