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Recent insights on direct democracy: Arguments, drivers, effects and conditions

Şimşek C.; Limão J.; Campos I.; Fuchs D.; Schlipphak B.

Review article (journal) | Peer reviewed

Abstract

Rooted in history, with origins tracing back to Athenian democracy in the 5th century BCE, direct democracy has gained renewed attention as a potential solution to the challenges of representative democracy. It is often seen as a means to reduce democratic deficits, enhance citizen participation, and legitimize political decisions. This study reviews recent literature on direct democracy, analyzing 46 articles published between 2016 and 2023 to map key themes and debates. While findings highlight its potential to strengthen participation, empower citizens, and align policies with public preferences, they also emphasize significant risks, including the marginalization of vulnerable groups and susceptibility to elite manipulation.

Details about the publication

Journal: Open Research Europe
Volume: 5
Article number: 171
Status: submitted / under review
Release year: 2025
Language in which the publication is written: English
DOI: 10.12688/openreseurope.20444.1
Link to the full text: https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/105014636098
Keywords: ballot initiatives; direct democracy; review; referendum

Authors from the University of Münster

Fuchs, Doris
Professorship of Sustainable Development (Prof. Fuchs)
Cluster of Excellence "Religion and Politics"
Schlipphak, Bernd
Professur für Politikwissenschaft mit dem Schwerpunkt Methoden empirischer Sozialforschung (Prof. Schlipphak)

Projects the publication originates from

Inclusive Citizenship in a world in Transformation: Co-Designing for Democracy (INCITE-DEM)
Duration: 01/03/2023 - 28/02/2026
Funded by: EC Horizon Europe - Research and innovation action
Type of project: EU-project hosted outside University of Münster