Frequently Asked Questions about Local Votes
What is a local vote, or “consulta popular”?
See Why a local vote? and National Laws Allowing Votes.
In what countries have local votes been held, and what have been the results?
EDLC has done its best to learn of every vote held to date concerning a local resource development project in a developing country (EDLC’s geographic focus). The results of that research are compiled in Votes in different countries. EDLC has reported the results of every vote of which it has become aware, without regard to the outcome.
Why has EDLC created this resource section on local votes?
EDLC has created this resource section to provide regularly updated, comprehensive information on local votes throughout the world. The goal is to help communities and others who are considering the use of such votes as a way for local people to have their views considered in decision-making on resource development projects that affect them and their environment.
EDLC believes that the values of consultation and participation by communities on issues that will determine their futures can best be protected by participatory democracy as expressed through fairly conducted direct votes on development proposals. Local votes are an important legal and political tool that allow communities to enforce international law that mandates the consultation and participation of citizens in development issues that affect their lives.
When can a local vote be used?
See National Laws Allowing Votes.
Are the results of a local vote legally binding on the national government?
This is an important question, and the general answer is that they are not. If the people to be affected by the proposed project are indigenous, international law requires that they must provide “free, prior, and informed consent” before a project can go forward. The meaning of this phrase is subject to intense debate, but while it is generally accepted that indigenous people must be provided with all information and be allowed to participate in decisions that affect them and their lands, there remains disagreement over whether they have actual “veto” power.
