Coalition formations in politics: role, typological features, functions

Abstract

A comprehensive analysis of the role, typological features and functions of coalition formations in modern politics has been carried out, their place in democratic political systems has been determined. Theoretical approaches to understanding the nature of political coalitions and empirical analysis of their practical manifestations in various political contexts have been systematized. The characteristic features of coalition formations have been identified: temporary existence with the possibility of long-term functioning, voluntary participation of subjects, preservation of autonomy in coordinating actions, commonality of strategic goals with possible tactical disagreements. The functions of coalitions in the political system have been characterized: aggregation and articulation of interests, formation of government coalitions, ensuring political stability, representation of various social groups in the decision-making process. The types of coalition formations have been revealed according to various criteria: parliamentary, electoral, governmental, thematic, homogeneous, heterogeneous, formal, informal. It is proven that the effectiveness of coalition formations depends not only on the ability of participants to make mutual concessions, the presence of common goals, but also on mechanisms of proper coordination. It was found that the prospects for further research into coalition activities are related to the need to study the impact of digital technologies on it; in-depth analysis of transnational coalition processes and their role in shaping global policy; clarifying the specifics of coalition processes in hybrid political regimes, where democratic and authoritarian elements coexist within a single system; identifying directions for ensuring coalition politics in the context of the growing popularity of anti-system movements; studying gender aspects of coalition politics and the role of women in the formation and functioning of political coalitions; clarifying the possibilities of youth participation in coalition processes; determining the nature of intergenerational political cooperation; development of practical recommendations for optimizing the functioning of coalition formations, which includes both institutional reforms and the development of a political culture of consensus and compromise.