Since 1919 the National Council has been elected using a system of proportional representation, whereby each party is allocated a number of seats in proportion to its numerical strength. The candidates who receive the highest number of votes obtain the seats won by their party. Unlike majority voting, proportional representation allows smaller parties to obtain a seat in parliament.
The election of the National Council takes place every 4 years, on the second last Sunday in October. The members are elected for a term of 4 years, while re-elections are possible.