The Functional Properties of the Referendum

This article outlines a way in which the wide range of experience of the referendum in Western Europe can be brought together by means of a “functional” approach. Two important perspectives appear to be: the degree of “control” exercised by the political authorities and the general “hegemonic effect” as seen in the consequences of the referendum. The variations that are possible, both in control and effect, provide the basis for a matrix of functional variance from which a broad typology can be established. The five basic types of referendum – including a non-functional category – are illustrated and elaborated by reference to a range of examples. These show that each referendum poses problems of interpretation. The conclusion is that a functional analysis of this type could be further refined by concentrating on the relationship a referendum bears to the prevailing party system.