Ahoy.

The topic of the election system used to choose the CSM has been with it from the beginning. Just to make it clear, the recent discussion was done with my knowledge and approval GÇô for the purpose of discussion. I admit that having the CSM posting the idea was not the best move on my behalf, as it sends the wrong signal about the whole process. I will be the person determining whether a change will go through regarding the CSM or not.

IGÇÖve always been the speaker for talks and discussion that is then followed by a decision. IGÇÖve done my very best to run the CSM with that in mind, you could easily dig up many things from the time when the concept of the CSM was being brought back into use in 2007 and surrounding most of the changes after the first election in 2008.

This is no different. During CSM6 and CSM7 IGÇÖve brought up the topic of the election system with the CSM and now they felt comfortable enough to take it on and discuss possible changes to it. What I do not want is to change the election system just to change it GÇô I want to achieve a fairer representation on the CSM and the STV has often come up as a possible way. However, the answer has usually been GÇÿlarge voting blocks can easily game any advanced voting systemsGÇÖ, thus the idea of moving the votes from those who do not get enough, instead of moving the votes that exceed the necessary number to get on. The discussion on the election reform thread clearly paints that as unfair and I fully understand that criticism. Either you move all votes or none is the mandate (if IGÇÖm reading the thread correctly) GÇô when put like that is seems obviousGǪ

So, putting Trebors idea aside for the moment, what election system would suit the CSM? A system that does not scare people away because of its complexity or added work for the voter (as voter apathy is a problem), but is still fair and good? Is the current system sufficient? Or should we focus more on matters to reduce the number of candidates on the ballot and not change the election system itself?

I would appreciate your input on this matter.