multimember

Multimember is an adjective meaning composed of several members. In political science and governance, it describes bodies or electoral districts that include more than one representative, as opposed to single-member units that elect or contain exactly one member.

In electoral politics, multimember districts (MMDs) elect two or more legislators from a constituency. They are often paired with proportional representation, party-list, or mixed systems, and may use open lists or single transferable vote. The choice of system influences the level of proportionality and the nature of representation. Multimember districts are commonly used to improve minority or regional representation and to facilitate coalition-building in legislatures.

Examples and usages vary by country. Ireland uses multi-member constituencies electing members to Dáil Éireann through the single transferable vote. Malta employs multi-member districts with proportional representation. Northern Ireland’s Assembly uses several multi-member constituencies, each electing multiple Members of the Legislative Assembly via STV. In local government, Scotland and other jurisdictions also employ multi-member wards for council elections.

Advantages of multimember districts often include greater proportionality, broader representation of minority groups, and improved coverage of regional interests. Disadvantages can include more complex ballots, potentially weaker geographic accountability, and the possibility of fragmented legislatures that require lengthy coalition negotiations.

Beyond elections, the term also appears in organizational governance. A multimember body, such as a board or committee, comprises several members and relies on collective decision-making, typically guided by majority voting or consensus-seeking processes.

See also: single-member district, proportional representation, single transferable vote.