Past Present Future Fixing Democracy: Compulsory Voting
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Oct 8, 2025 David Klemperer, a political historian at the Constitution Society, shares insights on compulsory voting. He explores its historical origins from ancient Athens to modern democracies like Belgium and Australia. Klemperer discusses the impact of mandatory voting on political participation, arguing it could change party incentives and improve voter responsiveness. He reflects on whether compulsory voting could have influenced major events like Brexit and the UK elections, and suggests that it might be part of a broader reform package to rejuvenate democracy.
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Origins In 19th-Century Democratization
- Compulsory voting emerged in the 19th century to manage fears about organized minority groups dominating politics.
- Belgium adopted it in 1893 and other countries followed, including Australia in 1924.
Countering Organised Political Minorities
- Early supporters feared organised groups like labour movements would turnout en masse and dominate low-turnout elections.
- Compulsory voting was seen as a counter to 'tyranny of the minority' from passionate, organised voters.
Australia's Rapid Acceptance
- In Australia compulsory voting became broadly accepted by 1924 after state trial experiments like Queensland's in 1915.
- Opposition was minimal and some MPs voted for it despite principled objections.
