Proportional representation systems are therefore applied in the vast majority of the countries under consideration. They are characterised by the assumption that the electorate is proportionately reflected in the elected body. In total, 56 countries out of 61 use a proportional or a mixed (also called “combined”) system.Among them, 43 countries use a proportional system – for at least one chamber for the countries having a bicameral parliament – whereas 13 countriesuse a mixed system.