A death sentence for multilateralism? Direct democracy and international cooperation

Chapter 6 examines how direct democracy affects domestic policies, institutional dynamics and political outcomes. It focuses on three domains – checks and balances, minority rights and economic management – to determine whether citizen participation produces responsible governance. The chapter finds that direct democracy fosters transparency, limits executive power and enhances policy stability. Contrary to concerns about majoritarian excess, evidence shows that popular votes often protect minority and individual rights, since open debate and judicial review accompany direct decision-making. Empirical studies indicate that direct democracies maintain balanced budgets, lower public debt and more efficient spending due to citizen scrutiny of public finances. The chapter also notes that policies adopted through referendums enjoy higher legitimacy and durability because they reflect direct consent. Welfare and environmental measures often benefit from broader social consensus when subjected to popular vote. Overall, the chapter concludes that direct democracy complements liberal constitutionalism by reinforcing accountability, improving fiscal outcomes and ensuring long-term policy commitment. Its effects, both direct and indirect, demonstrate that popular sovereignty contributes to responsible governance rather than instability, thereby deepening the quality and resilience of democratic institutions.