PARTICIPATORY VS REPRESENTATIVE DEMOCRACY

• Participatory democracy

  a form of a democratic government in which citizens themselves have the opportunity to make decisions about public policies. In This model of democracy, decisions and solutions are agreed upon and made by all members without resorting to a vote.
• Positive sides of participatory government

  It is inclusive, but process is long but peaceful (there is a compromise)
• In participatory democracy;

  1. members have the opportunity to raise an issue, provide possible solutions in crafting decisions
  2. Issues are discussed during face to face meetings
  3. Everyone who wants to join can contribute to the discussions
  4. Members want consensus (agreement of all)
• Initiative 


  A power reserved to the voters to propose legislation.
• Referendum


  A direct and universal vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal
• Representative democracy 


  It requires the election of a few members who are responsible for making the necessary decisions for the people. The person decides based on what the people wants. A representative democratic political system provides regular constitutional opportunities for changing government leaders.
• Characteristics of a representative democracy 


  1. The powers of the elected representatives are defined by a constitution that establishes the basic laws, principles, and framework of the government
  2. The constitution may provide for some forms of limited direct democracy such as recall elections and ballot initiative elections.
  3. Elected representatives may also have the power to select other government leaders such as a prime minister or president.
  4. An independent judiciary body such as supreme court may have the power to declare laws enacted by the representatives to be unconstitutional.
• For a representative democracy to work;

  1. There has to be an opportunity for genuine competition in the selection of leadership
  2. There has to be free communication both among the people and express
  3. Voters have to believe that a meaningful choice exists between candidates and that differences in policy are honestly reflected in each