Persistent Underrepresentation of Immigrant-Origin MPs Across Key European Countries

In all five countries, representation increased during the period under review – albeit at different rates. Germany saw the largest increase, while the United Kingdom and Switzerland achieved moderate gains and Spain only minimal improvements. Professor Dr. Andreas Wüst, coordinator of the comparative study and study director for Germany, noted, “The issue is not about achieving exact proportional representation but ensuring fair opportunities for all. Political parties need to ensure equal political opportunities for the immigrant-origin population, yet several parties still have significant deficits pertaining to candidates, representatives and office holders."

In Germany and Switzerland, immigrant-origin MPs are often active in left-wing parties. In the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, on the other hand, this is less typical. Many politicians are encouraged to stand as candidates by their family and party structures. Their political career is often made more difficult by discrimination and prejudice. Women in particular face additional challenges from sexism and racism. 

To address these challenges, the researchers propose concrete policy measures. These range from an expansion of voting rights and educational initiatives on how politics and the political system works to demands on parties to guarantee equal opportunities. In order to improve political representation, study authors call for stronger anti-discrimination measures, improved recruitment and training processes within political parties, and robust protective measures against hate speech and violence targeting minority politicians.