Referendums around the World

Referendums have been making news all over the democratic world particularly in connection with the European Community, the breakup of the Soviet Union, and a variety of controversies in the American states. As an institutional device, referendums have challenged both democratic theorists and practical politicians. This volume analyzes the strengths and weaknesses of the referendum and the initiative and how they fit the requirements of democratic ideals. Focusing primarily on the experience of the past fifteen years, it seeks to provide a comprehensive account of the history of referendums in the democratic world and of the common and different problems they provoke.