Referendum

Abstract

The referendum, understood as “the opportunity for electors to participate in a decision-making process by voting on an issue more or less specific and determined” (Uleri, 1996, p. 2), has historically taken an infinite amount of shapes, with diverse outcomes depending on the context in which it has taken place. However, the recent surge both in its use and its relevance in contemporary democracies raises new research lines, among which is its potential to channel an effective participation in contrast to its traditional use as a simple legitimation mechanism. The article’s objective is to set the foundation for a discussion on the use of referendums in relation to a conception of democracy that goes beyond the logic of representation.