REDEFINITION OF THE GREEK ELECTORAL DISTRICTS THROUGH THE APPLICATION OF A REGION-BUILDING ALGORITHM

Abstract

The main purpose of this paper is the formulation of a methodological approach for the
definition of homogenous spatial clusters, taking into account both geographical and
descriptive characteristics. The proposed methodology, is substantiated by SPiRAL (SPatial
Integration and Redistricting ALgorithm), a constrained-based spatial clustering algorithm,
whose successive steps focus on the analysis of the characteristics of the areas being
integrated, the designation of the spatial clusters and the validity of a joining criterion. We
applied the methodological approach and used SPiRAL to solve a realistic electoral
redistricting problem. Namely, the redefinition of the electoral districts of the Prefecture of
Lakonia in Greece. The results demonstrate an improved layout of the study area’s electoral
map as far as the problem’s criteria and constraints are concerned (adjacency, population and
size), justifying in this respect the perspectives and potential of our approach in the analysis
and confrontation of similar problems.