An initiative is a process by which citizens can propose a new law or changes to existing law and have it put to a direct vote by the people. An initiative process is a form of direct democracy that allows citizens to bypass the legislature and take matters into their own hands.
Procedure of Initiative
- The initiative process usually involves gathering a certain number of signatures from eligible voters to qualify the proposal for the ballot.
- Once the required number of signatures is obtained, the proposal is placed on the ballot for a direct vote by the people. If the proposal receives a majority of votes, it becomes law.
Case Study: USA
In the United States, the initiative process is used at the state and local level, and is particularly popular in Western states such as California, where citizens have used the initiative to propose and pass laws on a wide range of issues, including marijuana legalization, environmental protection, and same-sex marriage.
Criticism of Initiative
- The initiative process is often criticized for being vulnerable to manipulation
- It is also criticized for oversimplifying complex issues.
- Initiative can be costly and time-consuming
- It can lead to a proliferation of special interest groups and competing proposals.
