The Electoral Reform Society made big strides in 2025 to improve democracy across the United Kingdom, with key focus on Scotland and Wales. Through campaigns, research, and events, the group pushed for fair elections and more citizen input, setting the stage for changes in 2026.
Key Achievements in Wales
The Electoral Reform Society spent much of 2025 preparing for the 2026 Senedd elections set for May 7. These elections will bring major shifts, including a jump from 60 to 96 members and a switch to a closed list system.
The group voiced concerns about the closed list approach and called for the Single Transferable Vote instead. They even created their own bill to show how easy the change could be. Meetings with political parties and candidates helped build support for better voting rules.
In March, the society hosted a talk with Plaid Cymru leader Rhun ap Iorwerth on Welsh and global democracy. This event drew attention to the need for strong representation.
To spread awareness, the group ran briefings for journalists and civil society. About 90 organizations joined their Democracy Group Cymru to help new voters understand the changes.
They also planned an event with the Institute of Welsh Affairs to discuss how more Senedd members can boost capacity. Speakers included former First Minister Mark Drakeford and Presiding Officer Elin Jones.
Scotland’s Push for Citizen Involvement
In Scotland, the Electoral Reform Society launched a groundbreaking citizens’ assembly in Dunfermline. This project, backed by the Scottish Government and Fife Council, aims to let locals shape their city’s future.
The assembly will meet over three weekends in early 2026 to tackle how to make Dunfermline a better place as it grows. People chosen by lottery will join to ensure diverse voices get heard.
This marks Scotland’s first city-level assembly of its kind. The group hopes it shows how such events can fit into everyday local decisions without high costs.
An independent review by the London School of Economics will check the assembly’s success. Results will help spread similar ideas across Scotland.
Beyond this, the society held a conference in April called A Scottish Spring. It gathered experts to talk about reducing division and improving the Scottish Parliament after 25 years.
Major Reforms and Their Impact
The Senedd changes stem from the 2024 Members and Elections Act. New rules include 16 constituencies and proportional representation, which could shake up Welsh politics.
Polls suggest parties like Reform UK might gain ground under the new system. One survey showed them possibly overtaking Welsh Labour in votes.
In Scotland, the Dunfermline assembly ties into broader efforts to move past old debates on independence. The society’s work highlights ways to build inclusive talks.
Here are some key impacts of these reforms:
- More seats mean better representation for diverse groups.
- Citizen assemblies give power to everyday people, not just politicians.
- Awareness campaigns help voters understand and join in.
| Reform Area | Details | Expected Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Senedd Size | Increase to 96 members | Stronger debates and oversight |
| Voting System | Closed list proportional | Fairer seat distribution |
| Dunfermline Assembly | Three weekends in 2026 | Local ideas for city growth |
| Awareness Efforts | Briefings and events | Higher voter turnout |
Looking Ahead to 2026
With elections looming in Wales, the Electoral Reform Society plans to keep pushing for the Single Transferable Vote. They aim to influence party manifestos and build cross-party support.
In Scotland, the assembly’s results could inspire more local projects. The group’s research and media work will continue to spotlight democracy issues.
These efforts come at a time when trust in politics is low. Recent events, like by-elections where Reform UK nearly won seats, show shifting voter moods.
The society’s 2025 annual review notes growing membership and momentum for change. This builds on years of advocacy for a modern democracy.
What do you think about these democracy reforms? Share your views in the comments and pass this article to friends who care about fair elections.
