Spatial distribution of electoral process elements for general voting and its impact on voter turnout in Iraq's 2021 parliamentary elections

Abstract

The parliamentary electoral process holds significant importance in determining the fate of nations and countries. Therefore, it was crucial to study and elucidate its components, which form the basis of conducting elections. Among these elements, the people are fundamental, as they constitute the basis for the existence of governments and states, and the conduct of elections. From these populations emerge voters who choose their representatives in the political parliament, voicing their opinions and expressing their requirements. Other elements of the electoral process complement the voters' voice, including electoral districts, registration centers, polling stations, and electoral centers, all essential for counting and distributing registered voters in each electoral district. Hence, the study addresses the spatial geographic distribution of registrants, voters, and subsequently, those who cast their votes. Furthermore, it delves into the division of electoral districts and the geographic distribution of polling stations and electoral centers. The study also examines the impact of the spatial distribution of electoral process elements on voter turnout in Iraq's governorates during the 2021 parliamentary elections. The research concludes that there is geographic variation in the distribution of electoral process elements, which clearly affects voter turnout. Larger electoral districts tend to see higher voter turnout, indicating greater enthusiasm for voting in larger-sized districts, with the opposite being true as well.