What's New?

This research reveals consistent patterns in electoral competition following party splits across Western and Central/Eastern Europe. Key Findings

Across 200+ post-war schisms in 25 European countries, vote shares for rump and splinter parties are directly tied to their membership strength and the number of legislators who defected.

Context & Factors

Electoral dynamics after fission are shaped by broader economic conditions (boosting incumbents), existing party fragmentation levels, and specific regulatory frameworks governing campaign financing. • Economic growth bolstered government-holding rump parties' support • Fragmented systems influenced how splinter groups performed • Country-specific regulations affected funding strategies during elections