1.1.1 Direct democracy and representative democracy

There are two types of democracy: Direct and Representative

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Direct Democracy

Direct democracy is a form of government in which political decisions are made directly by citizens, rather than by elected representatives. This system allows citizens to directly participate in the decision-making process on issues of legislation, policy, and governance.

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Examples of forms of direct democracy

1. Referendums and Initiatives:

2. Recalls:

3. Town Hall meetings:

• Citizens attend meetings, deliberation on issues, and make decisions through voting.

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The impact of direct democracy

Citizen Participation:

• Direct democracy emphasizes the involvement of citizens in the political process. Every eligible citizen has the right to participate directly in the formulation, development, and passage of laws and policies.

No Intermediaries:

• In direct democracy, there is minimal or no intermediary between the decision-makers (the citizens) and the decision itself. This contrasts with representative democracy, where elected officials make decisions on behalf of their constituents.

Greater Accountability:

• Direct democracy ensures that government actions are closely aligned with the will of the people. Since decisions are made by the citizens themselves, there is a high level of accountability and transparency.

Empowerment of the Public:

• This form of democracy empowers individuals by giving them a direct voice in the legislative process. It fosters greater political engagement and educates citizens about governmental affairs.

Majoritarian Rule:

• Decisions in direct democracy are typically made by majority rule. While this ensures that the majority's will is respected, it can sometimes lead to the marginalization of minority groups.

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Examples of direct democracy in use:

Switzerland:

• Switzerland is one of the most notable examples of a country that utilizes direct democracy extensively. Swiss citizens regularly participate in referendums and initiatives at both the national and cantonal levels.
• In 2016, Swiss citizens voted in a referendum on the proposal to introduce a universal basic income. Although the initiative was ultimately rejected, the process demonstrated the direct involvement of citizens in critical national policy decisions.

The 2016 EU Referendum:

• Held on June 23, 2016, it asked UK citizens whether the country should remain a member of the European Union (EU) or leave.
• The referendum allowed all eligible UK citizens to participate directly in the decision-making process regarding the country's membership in the EU.
• The referendum resulted in 51.9% of voters choosing to leave the EU, a decision that set in motion the process of Brexit.

Question on the Ballot:

"Should the United Kingdom remain a member of the European Union or leave the European Union?"

Turnout and Result:

• Voter Turnout: 72.2%
• Leave: 51.9%
• Remain: 48.1%

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Representative Democracy

Representative democracy is a system of government in which citizens elect representatives to make decisions and pass laws on their behalf. This form of democracy is based on the principle of elected individuals representing the people, as opposed to direct democracy where citizens make decisions themselves.

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Examples of forms of representative democracy:

1. Parliamentary Democracy:

• Example: The United Kingdom

2. Presidential Democracy:

• Example: The United States

3. Semi-Presidential Democracy:

• Example: France

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Key Features of Representative Democracy:

1. Elected Representatives:

• In a representative democracy, citizens vote to elect representatives who will act on their behalf. These representatives are typically chosen through regular, free, and fair elections. They hold the responsibility to legislate, make policy decisions, and govern.

2. Free and Fair Elections:

• Elections in representative democracies are conducted in a manner that ensures they are free from undue influence, fraud, or coercion. They must be regular, competitive, and inclusive, providing a genuine choice to the electorate.

3. Accountability**:**

• Representatives are accountable to the electorate. If they fail to fulfill their duties or act against the interests of their constituents, they can be voted out of office in subsequent elections. This accountability ensures that representatives remain responsive to the needs and wishes of the people.

4. Rule of Law:

• Representative democracies operate under the rule of law, meaning that laws apply equally to all citizens, including elected officials. The legal framework ensures that the actions of representatives are regulated and that there are checks and balances on their power.

5. Separation of Powers:

• This system often includes a separation of powers among different branches of government (executive, legislative, and judicial). This separation ensures that no single branch becomes too powerful and that each branch can check the powers of the others.

6. Pluralism and Tolerance:

• Representative democracy supports a pluralistic society where multiple political parties and interest groups can exist and operate freely. It promotes tolerance and respect for diverse views and encourages debate and discussion.

7. Deliberation and Debate:

• Elected representatives engage in deliberation and debate to make informed decisions. This process allows for the consideration of different viewpoints and the development of well-rounded policies.

8. Constituency Representation:

• Representatives often serve specific geographic areas known as constituencies. They are expected to advocate for the interests and concerns of their constituents in the legislative process.