The impact of using proportional representation system on the fragmentation of the party system in Algeria. Applied to the elections of the National People’s Assembly (1997–2017)

Purpose The purpose of this study is to examine the impact using proportional representation system on fragmentation party in Algerian political within period from 1997 2017, which Algeria has experienced five legislative elections regularly every years by testing a hypothesis about adopting basis closed list during foregoing obviously influenced exacerbation system’s fragmentation, compared other factors. Design/methodology/approach essence theoretical framework address effect electoral as an independent variable dependent variable. starting point for that reassess “Duverger’s law,” appeared since early 1950s and relationship, then review literature new phase tried provide more accurate mechanism determining number parties their relative weight, whether terms votes or parliamentary seats. This means researchers began use measure called effective (ENP) Laakso Taagepera 1979. elaborates general concepts system. It used Laakso, index “ENP” phenomenon 2017 Algeria. Findings results reveal – beside factors had clear impacts all standards, level apparent rise represented parliament 10 election 36 according (ENP). average was around 7.66, 4.39, puts advanced degree Originality/value system, one subjects field comparative politics globally Arab world. Hence, value aims shed light mysterious area science, 2017.