Plebiscitary Politics

Plebiscitary politics refers to a political approach where leaders seek direct approval from the public through referendums or votes on specific issues, rather than relying solely on legislative processes or representative decision-making. It emphasizes appealing directly to the electorate to legitimize policies or leadership, often bypassing parliamentary debate. This method can strengthen a leader’s authority by showcasing popular support for particular initiatives, but it may also reduce the role of representative institutions in shaping policy. Essentially, plebiscitary politics centers on direct votes as a key tool for political legitimacy and decision-making.