Surveying all referendums around the world since 1793, Dr Qvortrup and contributors provide a thorough account of why and when citizens have been asked to vote on policy issues. Referendums Around the World is essential reading for political scientists and others interested in direct democracy as well as representative government.

1. Introduction: Theory, Practice and History; Matt Qvortrup 2. Referendums in Russia, the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe; Ronald J. Hill and Stephen White 3. Referendums in Western Europe; Matt Qvortrup 4. Referendums in Switzerland; Uwe Serdült 5. Referendums and Initiatives in North America; Todd Donovan 6. Referendums in Latin America; David Altman 7. Referendums in Africa; Norbert Kersting 8. Referendums in Asia; Masahiro Kobori 9. Referendums in Oceania; Caroline Morris 10. Conclusion; Matt Qvortrup