| Contrary to what many believe or (even worse) preach, participatory democracy mechanisms do NOT displace the structure of representative democracy but rather reinforce it with greater and more direct citizen participation in public decisions. Indeed, in nations with strong representative systems, such as the US, some participatory democratic mechanisms have evolved into a symbiotic relationship with their representative systems, compelling those in charge of representing them to increasingly consider the views and goals of their constituents. The example that follows is enlightening. |
In his piece “Participatory Democracy in Action,” The American Law Institute (ALI) President David F. Levi reflects on a powerful experience mediating a dispute between the U.S. Department of Energy, the New Mexico Environment Department, and seven citizen groups over the renewal of the state permit for the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant, the nation’s only deep underground nuclear waste storage facility.
What began as a conventional mediation evolved into a striking example of participatory democracy. Over four days, government representatives, contractors, and diverse community groups—ranging from business leaders in Carlsbad to environmental advocates—sat together, exchanged views, and ultimately reached a consensus on permit terms. Levi describes the process as “something magical,” noting that citizens were not merely advising but taking on the responsibility of decision makers, demonstrating compromise, collaboration, and civic engagement at its best.
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When China occupied Tibet in 1950 to "liberate" Tibet from its "economic backwardness" of feudal and religious traditions, the effects were devastating. Tibetans were dispatched to labour camps, monks and nuns were executed or imprisoned, thousands of monasteries and temples were destroyed, and communist propaganda was forced upon the Tibetan people. An estimated 130.000 Tibetans are living in India today. The vast majority travels to India through Nepal (where some 14,000 Tibetans are exiled), but a few go through Myanmar (Burma) or straight through India's northeastern parts. Travel is undertaken mostly by foot, and in groups of 5-15 persons because of safety issues.
People’s Republic of China (PRC) that encompasses roughly half of Tibet. While Chinese state media is striking a predictably upbeat tone on the anniversary, the reality is that Tibetans have little to celebrate.