The proposed piece of law pledges for a number of key points to realize open and inclusive forms of direct democracy in Trentino, such as:

• Greater involvement of the people and extension of participatory rights to all residents over the age of 16, including citizens from countries outside EU territory, for petitions, citizens’ initiatives, and non-binding referendums
• Re-introduction of civic education in schools, and promotion of direct democracy principles through academic institutions and local communities
• Dedication of a portal for on-line advertising of citizens’ political initiative
   

The contents of the initiative are the results of discussions with citizens that took part from November 2011 to April 2012. “Più Democrazia in Trentino” and volunteers collected 4000 signatures, 1500 signatures more than necessary to pass the minimum threshold to enter the legislative procedure. Now the law making phase has begun, including discussions and possible amendments by the permanent legislative commission of the province Trentino.

Further information: 

“Più Democrazia in Trentino” at piudemocraziaintrentino.org

Key points of the proposed initiative at piudemocraziaintrentino.org/2012/08/23/kei-points-of-the-bill

Photo courtesy of Piú Democracia in Trentino

Text by Cora Pfafferott