Why Referendums Aren’t as Democratic as They Seem

10/19/2016

This New York Times article discusses the historic Colombian peace referendum and draws parallels with the Brexit referendum in the UK. It explores the surprising rejection of the peace agreement between the Colombian government and the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) in October 2016. The article analyzes the factors that contributed to the rejection, including voter apathy, misinformation, and President Juan Manuel Santos' failure to effectively communicate the benefits of the peace deal. It also highlights the polarization and divisions within Colombian society that were exposed during the referendum. The article concludes by emphasizing the challenges and complexities of achieving peace in a divided nation.

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