Populism has been on the rise in recent years. Authoritarian regimes have risen to power in Egypt, Hungary, Italy, the Philippines, Turkey, Poland, and Thailand in this decade. The link between populism and authoritarianism seems to be as follows. Populism begins when there is a disconnect between people and their government. Issues such as lack of economic progress or immigration provides an opportunity for a populist leader to present himself as a savior. Once in power, the leader’s goal becomes to stay in power so he cracks down on democratic freedoms resulting in an authoritarian regime.
While the rise of populism could just be a phase, it may also indicate growing frustration with established governments. Today people expect more from their governments than ever before. People want to be heard and they have the tools to make themselves heard. If politicians aren’t responsive enough, grievants can use social media to coordinate protests (e.g., Hong Kong). As such, populism could be an early indicator that people are looking for something new—a governance system that is more responsive to their needs.
Direct democracy, which systemizes the use of referendums in governance, provides an alternative to populism. Referendums provide a means to air grievances and make laws to address them. Instead of protesting, grievants get their issue onto a ballot where it is voted-on by the full population. Because the issue is addressed publicly, there is less chance for an opportunist to exploit it. Whether or not a new law is passed, frustration is tamped down because the issue was at least heard. This process has been used in California several times, on issues ranging from reducing property taxes to removing a governor.
There are many challenges to expanding direct democracy as a form of governance however. Societies would have to learn how to do it better. Tools would be needed to make it more efficient, more precise, and more stable. Nevertheless, the recent rise in populism may suggest that people are looking a system that more effectively conveys the voice and will of the people.
References:
Washington Post, “The return of the men in green,” 15 Apr 2018, B1.
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