More Citizens’ Initiatives: Advocacy Group Calls for Reforms in Saxony
Introduction:
The "More Democracy" initiative in the German state of Saxony is advocating for the expansion of citizens’ initiatives through increased Bürgerentscheide (direct democratic votes on issues of public concern). The group maintains that the high number of inadmissible Bürgerbegehren (citizens’ petitions) in Saxony, which exceeds 60%, is a significant obstacle to citizen participation.
Key Issues and Criticism:
- Inadmissibility of Citizens’ Petitions:
Frank Rosberger, spokesperson for the nationwide "More Democracy" initiative, emphasizes that the percentage of inadmissible citizens’ petitions in Saxony is far above the national average of 28.5%. He suggests that organizers often lack awareness of the requirements and deadlines for submission, resulting in petitions being rejected.
- Lack of Pre-Approval Process:
Rosberger stresses the need for a pre-approval process for citizens’ petitions before the commencement of signature collection. This would ensure that potential petitions meet the necessary criteria and avoid the waste of effort on invalid initiatives.
- Cost Coverage Requirements for Citizens’ Petitions:
The initiative also calls for the abolition of the cost coverage requirement for citizens’ petitions. This requirement places a financial burden on organizers, especially those representing marginalized communities, which can deter citizen participation.
Progress and Future Prospects:
1. Bürgerentscheide in Saxony:
On the day of the upcoming Bundestag elections, three Bürgerentscheide will take place in Saxony, marking the 200th such vote in the state’s history. These initiatives include referendums on an inter-municipal industrial area in Radeberg and Arnsdorf and the construction of wind turbines in Hohnstein.
2. Lowering the Signature Hurdle:
Rosberger attributes the rise in Bürgerbegehren to a reduction in the signature threshold from 10% to 5% by the Saxon Landtag (state parliament) in 2022. This change has facilitated greater citizen involvement in local decision-making processes.
3. Need for Further Reforms:
Despite these positive steps, Rosberger emphasizes the importance of ongoing reforms to enhance citizens’ democratic rights. The "More Democracy" initiative advocates for a series of improvements, including:
- Extension of citizens’ initiative rights to include issues of state and federal importance.
- Strengthening the role of Bürgerentscheide by making their outcomes binding on local authorities.
- Establishing a permanent Citizens’ Council to provide input on legislative and policy initiatives.
Conclusion:
The "More Democracy" initiative in Saxony recognizes the progress made in promoting citizens’ initiatives through Bürgerentscheide. However, it emphasizes the need for further reforms to address the high rate of inadmissible petitions, provide pre-approval mechanisms, and eliminate financial barriers to citizen participation. The goal of this initiative is to empower citizens and enhance their influence in shaping their communities and the broader political landscape.
