stemmedeltakelse

Stemmedeltakelse is a term used in electoral statistics to describe the level of participation by eligible voters in a given election or referendum. It is typically expressed as a turnout rate, defined as the share of eligible voters who cast a ballot. Denominators can vary, producing turnover measures such as turnout (eligible voters), registered turnout, or effective turnout (taking into account actual eligible or participating populations).

Data for stemmedeltakelse are collected by national election authorities, statistical agencies, and international organizations. Challenges in measurement include differences in who is considered eligible, changes in suffrage rules, and the treatment of spoiled or invalid ballots. Variations in voting methods—such as in-person voting, postal voting, or early voting—also affect comparability across jurisdictions and time.

Cross-national comparability is a common concern with stemmedeltakelse. Some countries require voting by law (compulsory voting), while others rely on voluntary participation, which influences turnout independently of political engagement. The choice of denominator (eligible vs registered voters) and the inclusion of late-arriving or invalid ballots can further complicate comparisons.

Interpretation of stemmedeltakelse requires nuance. High turnout may signal broad political mobilization or perceived legitimacy of the election, while low turnout can indicate disengagement or barriers to access. Turnout trends are frequently analyzed to assess democratic participation, the impact of electoral reforms, and the level of political legitimacy attributed to specific elections.

See also: voter turnout, electoral participation, suffrage, electoral reform.