stichwahl

Stichwahl is a German term referring to a runoff election, also known as a second ballot. This electoral system is employed when no candidate receives an absolute majority of votes in the first round of an election. An absolute majority typically means more than 50% of the valid votes cast. If this threshold is not met by any candidate, a second round is held.

The candidates eligible to participate in the Stichwahl are usually the top two vote-getters from the first round. However, some electoral systems may allow for more than two candidates if they have achieved a certain minimum percentage of votes. The winner of the Stichwahl is the candidate who receives the most votes in the second round, even if it is not an absolute majority, but simply a plurality.

Stichwahlen are common in presidential elections, mayoral elections, and sometimes in legislative elections in Germany and other countries that use similar electoral systems. The purpose of a Stichwahl is to ensure that the eventual winner has broader support from the electorate than a candidate who might have won with only a plurality in a single-round election. This process can lead to increased legitimacy for the elected official. The specific rules and thresholds for a Stichwahl can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the type of election.