Majoritarianism and State Performance

Abstract

An evaluation of the reinforcement of majoritarian elements in Greek and Turkish democracy confirms its negative impact on the quality of democratic institutions, transparency and accountability. Boosted by populist politics, it has also nurtured social polarization and prevented the development of social trust, which in turn can become a crucial opportunity structure for the success of populist political parties. The multilevel crises that both Greece and Turkey have faced in recent years have been facilitated by the increasing appeal of majoritarianism.