Election Analysis Paper

1 PS 2: Comparative Government Election Analysis Paper Spring 2017 Brief Description: A medium -length analytical paper involving basic research about any one upcoming election from the following list : France: Presidential Election -- First Round: April 23 rd, 2017 & Second Round: May 7 th, 2017 Iran: Presidential Election -- May 19 th, 2017 Rwanda: Presidential Elections -- August 4 th, 2017 Germany: Parliamentary Elections (Bu ndestag) -- September 24 th, 2017 Chile: Presidential Election -- November 19 th, 2017 Content Requirements: 1. Briefly describe the historical context of this election . Examples: Does it follow large scale protest s or a controversial government ? Has the party system experienced any major changes in recent years? Do neutral observers often allege government fraud/voter intimidation/corruption ? Note: Academic sources or perhaps journalistic sources would be appropriate here. 2. Briefly describe (a) the basic relationship between the executive and legislature , such as a presidential system , parliamentary system , or semi -presidential system; and (b) the electoral system , such as SMD, PR, etc., in the country you selected. Note: Reference sources would be appropriate here. 3. Briefly describe the major players in this election , such as major candidates, political parties, interest groups, social movements, or incumbe nts . A major player would be any powerful group or actor that is likely to influence the outcome of the election, perhaps even via boycott or intimidation . Note: Journalistic or perhaps academic sources would be appropriate here. 4. What is “at stake” in this election? Put differently, briefly describe one major issue of controversy likely the outcome of the election is likely to influence . Journalistic sources would be appropriate here. 5. Based on your research, who do you expect to win power ? Source Requirement & Suggestions : Your analysis must us e a minimum of three sources . I recommend starting with the CIA World Factbook , the IFES Election Guide, Country Watch, or another reputable and up -to-date reference source. However, all non -reference sources must be either high quality journalistic sources, academic sources, or reputable NGO/IGO sources such as Human Rights Watch, the Carter Center, the United Nations, the European Union, etc. Length, Format, Style , & Other Requirements: Each paper must be between 1,200 -1,500 words in length (typed, double -spaced, Times New Roman, size 12 font , 1 -inch margins ), using APA -style cit ations. The reference page (a.k.a. “works cited” page) does not count as part of the minimum word count. You are required to submit a physical copy of your paper and upload a digital version to Canvas. Remember that plagiarism and other acts of academic dishonesty are not tolerated in my class and any evidence of plagiarism, regardless of intent, will be result in a zero for the assignment and the filing of a report with the Dean of Students. Due Date: Thursday, April 27 th at the start of class.