VI. FPTP tipping point — Electoral systems and inequality

Part VI – FPTP meets its tipping point

Scope: compares the outcomes of the recent NL (2023) and UK (2024) elections and shows how the UK’s FPTP system is at its tipping point

Summary:

Since 1980, the UK’s two-party FPTP system has driven 30% lower public spending and the highest inequality in NW Europe
The Netherlands, under PR, has remained among the world’s most equal countries despite adopting some neoliberal reforms
In 2023, Dutch voters ousted centrist parties—but PR forced compromise, sidelining PVV’s most extreme policies
In contrast, the UK’s FPTP system blocks change and fuels voter anger, leaving Reform UK poised to exploit growing discontent

Conclusion:

PR systems absorb discontent through compromise and shared power; FPTP systems deflect it, deepen inequality, and risk explosive realignments.