Germany - July 2024
Constitutional Court approves downsizing parliament
On 30 July, the Federal Constitutional Court approved an electoral reform that foresees downsizing the Bundestag (parliament), but overturned changes that would disproportionately affect smaller parties. It ruled that parties winning three or more constituencies, even if they receive less than 5 per cent of the vote (threshold to enter Bundestag), should still be entitled to proportional representation in the Bundestag. The Bundestag will shrink from 736 to 630 members. The 2021 national election resulted in a record 736 Bundestag members, exceeding the size of the European Parliament. The ruling parties believe the reform will save at least EUR 310 million per legislative period and enhance efficiency.
