In order to proof democratic developments in Belarus the following study will be divided
into five different sections. The opening section positions Belarus within contemporary debate
about the concept of the Direct Democracy, with a special focus on the relevance and functions
of the institution of referendum and plebiscite.
Next, the paper reviews the Belarusian referenda since president Lukashenko came to
power. First, legal bases for this kind of institution must be presented. Further, detailed course
within the timeframe of May 1995 and October 2004 in connection with a public reaction on
them and an international appraisal will be shown.
Section three of the paper then considers the historical context of Belarus with a special
focus on the Soviet period in order to elucidate the issues mentioned. Long dependence may
explain why there exists a big mistrust to international institutions and the West as such. This
section presents also possible reasons of the weak Belarusian national identity and lack of the
civil society in the country.
Next chapter looks after possible ways Belarus should follow. Having in mind the way
the direct democracy has been forced there via referendums that do not meet law standards, this
part will consider possible reasons and challenges for the Belarusian governance in the domain
of international relations with its biggest neighbors: Russia and the European Union, from a
variety of perspectives. It is essential in the debate about democratization of Belarus without
destroying so important economical ties with Russia.
In conclusion it will be analyzed how the changes described can proof the concept of the
Direct Democracy in Belarusian context. In doing so, answers on how the international
community can deal with such types of governance will be provided. Finally some interesting
findings regarding democratic changes due to an undemocratic form of governance will be
summed up.
Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Abstract
- Introduction
- The Concept of Direct Democracy
- Referenda in Belarus
- Legal frames
- Referenda 1995, 1996, 2004
- Historical context of Belarus
- Analysis
- Closer to the EU?
- Closer to Russia?
- Conclusions
- Summary in a foreign language
- Attachment
- Bibliography and Internet sources
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This research paper analyzes the role of direct democracy in Belarus, specifically examining the impact of referenda on the country's international relations. The paper explores the reasons behind the limited development of democratic institutions in Belarus and the challenges faced in achieving democratization without compromising its economic ties with Russia.- The Concept of Direct Democracy in the Context of Belarus
- The History and Impact of Referenda in Belarus
- The Historical Context of Belarus, Including its Dependence on Russia
- The Challenges of Balancing Democratic Development with Economic Ties to Russia
- The Implications of Belarus's Position "Between Moscow and Brussels" for Its International Relations
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Abstract: This abstract introduces the research paper's focus on the discrepancy between theoretical arguments and empirical evidence regarding direct democracy in transition countries, specifically addressing the case of Belarus. It highlights the lack of democratic development in Belarus despite the presence of direct democratic institutions, arguing that these institutions have been used to strengthen the ruling power and legitimize the decisions of the dictator.
- Introduction: The introduction sets the scene for the paper, providing background information about Belarus's geographical location, its economic situation, and its relationship with Russia and the European Union. It raises questions about the nature of Belarus's ties with Russia, whether they are mutual assistance or enslavement, and the role of direct democracy in shaping the country's political landscape.
- The Concept of Direct Democracy: This section delves into the concept of direct democracy, focusing on the relevance and functions of referendums and plebiscites. It positions Belarus within the contemporary debate surrounding the concept, exploring its applicability in a context marked by limited democratic development.
- Referenda in Belarus: This chapter explores the legal framework governing referendums in Belarus, including a detailed analysis of the referendums held in 1995, 1996, and 2004. The chapter also discusses public reaction to these referendums and their international appraisal.
- Historical Context of Belarus: This section provides a historical context for the paper, focusing on the Soviet period and its influence on Belarus's current political and social situation. It explores the reasons for the country's weak national identity, lack of a civil society, and mistrust towards international institutions and the West.
- Analysis: This chapter examines possible pathways for Belarus's future development, considering the challenges of balancing democratic reforms with economic dependence on Russia. It analyzes Belarus's relationship with both Russia and the European Union, exploring the potential for closer ties with either entity.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This research paper focuses on the development of direct democracy in Belarus, particularly examining the use of referendums and their impact on the country's relationship with Russia and the European Union. Key concepts explored include the limitations of direct democracy in undemocratic contexts, the historical influence of the Soviet Union on Belarus, and the challenges of achieving democratic reform while maintaining economic ties with Russia.- Citation du texte
- Elzbieta Szumanska (Auteur), 2009, Direct Democracy in Belarus, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/127639
