Case Study: Fuller Democracy2021-11-29T11:39:45-07:00

Case Study

Fuller Democracy

DIGITAL DEMOCRACY PILOT IN FINGAL, IRELAND

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Need

Allow constituents to decide how to allocate political resources on a peer-to-peer basis

Outcome

A clear conversation and action plan on future political priorities in the area

Roslyn Fuller, an independent political candidate in Dublin-Fingal, wanted to ensure that her positions aligned with her constituents’ wishes. Fuller used Ethelo to engage local voters on key issues including environment, taxation, health, education, foreign policy, and local priorities. More than 30 different policy options were presented, along with “pro” and “con” arguments. Ethelo analyzed voter sentiments on the key issues and showed – along with significant online discussions – which issues were at the top of people’s minds and the policy positions they were likely to support. In an area comprising 175 square miles and nearly 300 000 residents, comprehensive face-to-face consultation would have been impossible.

It’s time to stop forcing people to stew in silence between elections and start opening up politics to continuous participation. I have been researching democracy for over a decade and my ultimate goal is the introduction of full direct digital democracy. Online participation software can provide a reflective and accurate snapshot of voter preferences and Ethelo is the most sophisticated solution I have come across.

Roslyn Fuller
Independent Candidate