Past Present Future Fixing Democracy: What’s Wrong with Referendums?
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Oct 5, 2025 Alan Renwick, a Professor at UCL's Constitution Unit and an expert on referendums, dives into the complexities of direct democracy. He explores when referendums can effectively engage citizens and correct over-mediation. The discussion addresses the dangers of manipulation, particularly evident in the Brexit referendum. Renwick advocates for citizens' assemblies to handle sensitive issues and stresses the importance of reforms to ensure impartial information. Throughout, he also examines international examples and the risks posed to minority rights in referendum contexts.
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Limits Of Pure Referendum Democracy
- Referendums maximise direct public decision-making but are weak on deliberation and minority protections.
- Alan Renwick argues democracy is multidimensional and referendums only serve one narrow dimension.
Referendums Reengage Disengaged Voters
- Referendums can reconnect disengaged voters to politics by offering a clear, direct choice.
- Renwick notes Scottish and Brexit votes brought high turnout and people who don't usually vote.
Build Strong Safeguards For Referendums
- Safeguard referendum integrity by ensuring a level playing field and opportunities to hear both sides.
- Design impartial safeguards to prevent manipulation by powerful elites or foreign actors.