Direct democracy and referendums

direct democracy - Definition

A political system where the people themselves make key political decisions.

2 local ways direct democracy exists in the U.k.

1. Local authorities consults members of their community

2. Parishes hold public meetings in village halls

Issues with these small scale systems

Not true direct democracy, as that would involve people making critical decisions

National direct democracy example in Uk

Referendums

Referendum definition

An occasion when citizens are asked to determine a question of public importance

Are referendums legally binding

No, as parliament is ultimately sovereign, so don’t need to follow the outcome

But would look bad, and would lose support from the electorate.

Feature of a referendum question

Always a yes/no answer

Not good for nuanced situations

What issues are Uk national referendums related to

Major constitutional changes

Why are constitutional changes decided in a referendum?

To entrench the decision, meaning future govs cannot easily reverse it without public consultation again

Who decides when or whether to hold a referendum

Uk vs US

UK: Government

US: in some states people themselves can call a referendum - called an initiative

Advantages of referendums

1. Direct democracy, truly representing the voice of the people

2. By widening debate across the public, they create a better educated electorate

3. Protects citizens from an overbearing government by limiting their power

Disadvantages of referendums

1. Tyranny of the majority - marginalised groups’ voices are often disregarded in a majority vote

2. General public are less informed than the politicians, so they should make decisions on our behalf

3. Extreme voices are often louder, so they will be heard which could sway public opinion

4. Yes/No question removes nuance in complex situations

5. Low turnout means that they may not truly represent society’s overall opinions

6. is it fair that a decision passes in a 51/49 vote?