要点
- Because the system in Belgium highlights prominent figures, older politicians remaining in office is a common situation.
- Distance from politics and the decline of left-wing parties are influential in the inadequate representation of young people in parliament.
- Political scientist Sägesser states that an age limit cannot be introduced for the legislature, but a limit could be considered for executive roles.
数字で見る
The fact that many politicians in Belgium who have passed the retirement age remain in office stems from the country's electoral system promoting prominent figures and 'vote locomotives'. Political scientist Caroline Sägesser states that parties place highly recognized candidates on the ballot, but these individuals withdraw after being elected due to their age, leaving their seats to substitute candidates. Although this allows those who are just starting their political careers to gradually become known, it shows that the system does not directly promote young people.
Sägesser, who notes that young people's apathy towards politics is increasing, draws attention to the difficulties of entering politics at a young age. The researcher emphasizes that individuals become more interested in politics as they start their professional lives, begin paying taxes, and gain life experience, while also adding that the loss of power by left-wing parties indirectly reduces the number of young politicians in parliament. The system is not in a suitable structure to mobilize the youth.
Sägesser, noting that imposing an upper age limit in politics could be unconstitutional and contrary to democratic rights, suggests instead that age limits could be introduced for positions in executive bodies. She also adds to her remarks that there is no legal removal mechanism for elected officials who lose their capacity during their term, and that the party is expected to intervene internally in such situations.
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よくある質問
- What is the main reason for older politicians remaining in office in Belgium?
- This is caused by the electoral system being based on name recognition and the parties' reluctance to remove prominent figures whom they see as 'vote locomotives' from the list.
- Can an upper age limit be imposed to be elected in Belgium?
- Since it would be unconstitutional, setting an upper age limit for legislative duties seems difficult; however, it is believed that this limit could be introduced for executive duties.
- What happens if a politician becomes unable to perform their duties due to health issues?
- There is no legal procedure to ensure removal; generally, the route of bringing a substitute candidate in place of the person is preferred through the direction of the relevant party.