Opposition in Bolivarian Venezuela: Caught Between Conflict and Compromise
The Venezuelan opposition has undergone important changes in an institutionalist direction in its composition, discursive emphasis, and strategic direction.
Review – 1989 as a Political World Event
The peculiarity of Rupnik’s collection is its focus on 1989 as “world event”, although the manifestly Euro-centric perspective does not permit a truly extensive analysis.
Crisis in Venezuela: Will Anybody Support Democracy?
While polarisation in society and government has led to unsustainable social fracture, a lack of regional support suggests Venezuelan democracy has been left on its own.
Civil Society Participation and Deliberative Democracy in the European Union
There is a gap between high theory-driven expectations and the modest realities of civil society participation.
Moblization and Deliberation. EU for the Citizens?
EU measures to mitigate the ‘democratic deficit’ have been largely insufficient to date, rather the role of deliberation should be to include alternative discourses.
Review – The Small Nation Solution
Bodley’s argument that societal problems are that of scale is strong; but more appreciation could be given to the benefits of treating the environment as part of the commons.
Review – The Comparative International Politics of Democracy Promotion
In focusing on the objectives of democracy promoters, this edited collection provides a fertile ground for understanding the process of democratization.
Review – Democratic Deliberation in the Modern World
Gunn’s admirable volume offers strong criticisms of the practicalities of deliberative democracy. However, the recent ‘systematic turn’ in deliberative theory may offer a defence of the practice.
Why Bahrainis Must Embrace Dialogue
The international community must recognise that the situation in Bahrain is unique from its neighbours, argue Ali Fathalla, and support the country in their engagement with dialogue.
The People’s Mojahedin of Iran: Facing Death for Their Cause
Whatever one’s attitude towards the politics of The People’s Mojahedin of Iran, it is beyond doubt that they have worked tirelessly for over forty years for democracy in Iran.
