Guiding principles for Canadian federal electoral reform

The following five guiding principles may help you think about what you want from federal elections, your Member of Parliament (MP) and your federal government. They can help you decide what is important to you when it comes to potential changes to our democracy at the federal level by considering how any proposed reforms might:

• Restore the effectiveness and legitimacy of voting, such as by reducing distortions and strengthening the link between voter intention and the electoral result
• Encourage greater engagement and participation in the democratic process, including by underrepresented groups
• Support accessibility and inclusiveness of all eligible voters, and avoiding undue complexity in the voting process
• Safeguard the integrity of our voting process
• Preserve the accountability of local representation

Why are these principles important?

The principles were identified as a means to encourage a thoughtful, substantive dialogue about what Canadians expect from their electoral system. Potential changes to Canada’s federal electoral system can be assessed through questions such as:

• How could any proposed reforms strengthen effectiveness and legitimacy by better reflecting the democratic will of Canadians?
• How could any proposed reforms foster civility, cohesion and openness in politics that will help encourage Canadians to take part?
• How could any proposed reforms enhance the sense among Canadians that they can contribute to, participate in and influence politics?
• How could any proposed reforms support accessibility and inclusiveness for all Canadians in our diverse society?
• How could any proposed reforms ensure that Canadians can trust election results?
• How could any proposed reforms affect MPs’ accountability to citizens?

Where did the principles come from?

Recognizing that there are no one-size-fits-all electoral systems, selecting an electoral system is about values. These principles were developed based on lessons from other jurisdictions, in Canada and abroad.

The Government is presenting a set of broad principles that are intended to spark debate and deliberation among Canadians. Their purpose is to start the dialogue. The Special Committee on Electoral Reform has been asked to consider potential changes to our federal electoral system based on these principles. The consultation process will further shape and develop these principles based on feedback from Canadians like you. Have your say!