Question

Match the Direct Democracy Mechanism with its Example

Referendum	California Proposition 13 reducing property taxes
Initiative	California voters removing Governor Gray Davis
Recall	UK Brexit vote to leave the European Union
Plebiscit	Australia's vote on replacing the monarchy

• A. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4
• B. A-4, B-2, C-1, D-3
• C. A-2, B-1, C-3, D-4
• D. A-1, B-4, C-2, D-3

Answer 1

Answer:

A. A-3, B-1, C-2, D-4

Direct Democracy 

• Direct Democracy, also known as pure democracy, is a system in which citizens participate directly in the decision-making process.

• This means that citizens can vote on laws, policies, and other important matters without the involvement of elected representatives.

• Direct Democracy is often used in small communities or organizations where all members have an equal say in decision-making

Referendum:

• A direct vote by citizens on a specific issue or proposed law.

• Purpose: To approve or reject a policy, law, or constitutional change.

• Example: In 2016, the UK held a Brexit referendum where citizens voted to leave the European Union (52% voted “Leave”).

Initiative:

• Citizens propose new laws or amendments by collecting a required number of signatures, which then go to a public vote.

• Purpose: Allows citizens to introduce legislation directly.

• Example: In California, USA, Proposition 13 (1978) was a citizen-initiated measure that reduced property taxes after gathering enough signatures.

Recall:

• Voters can remove an elected official before their term ends through a petition and vote.

• Example: In 2003, California voters recalled Governor Gray Davis and elected Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Plebiscite

• A plebiscite is a direct vote by citizens to express their opinion on a major issue, often non-binding, to guide government decisions

Direct Public Vote:

• Citizens vote on a specific question or issue.
  

• Example: In 1998, Australia held a plebiscite to decide whether to replace the monarchy with a republic (55% voted to keep the monarchy).

Non-Binding:

• Results are usually advisory, not legally enforceable, but influence government policy.

• Example: In 2017, Australia’s plebiscite on same-sex marriage (61.6% voted “Yes”) led to Parliament legalizing it.