Wege aus dem Wahlrechtsdilemma

German electoral law finds itself in a dilemma with regard to reform. Using a well-founded system and context analysis, Niels Dehmel discusses the malfunctions of Germany’s mixed-member proportional system since reunification and the debate surrounding its ability to reform. He does not see solutions in changing the system, but in comprehensive reform that preserves its structure and is committed to optimising existing elements. For this purpose, this comparative and analytical study compares selected reform options based on context-related assessment criteria and examines their suitability in a multi-stage evaluation process. Where there is no easy solution, given the complex requirements of reform, the author develops two contrasting scenarios combining individual reforms to improve the overall performance of the existing electoral system in a sustainable way.