Maximizing Index Diversity in Committee Elections

Researchers have published a novel framework that applies ecological diversity indices—used to measure species variety—to multi-winner political elections with labeled candidates. The goal is to algorithmically maximize committee diversity while respecting voter approval scores and satisfaction constraints. The paper analyzes computational complexity and introduces a new diversity index, with findings presented at AAMAS 2026. This formal, mathematical approach aims to systematically combat bias and improve representation in group selections.