The value of a democratic society does not lie in the voting system, but in the pluralism of this democratic society with various different opinions, which seek a consensus. After World War Two civil liberties developed and in order to let the people express their disagreement consensus became common practice. This is the post-war characteristic of democratic waves all over the world. To maintain this feature referenda and other tools of direct democracies have been in use to relief disagreement with representative politics and to establish order. No matter the nature of the controversy, be it politics, economy, or internationalism, all are suitable and capable of finding consensus via referenda.

The ECFA dispute is endless in Taiwan and the reason is its huge impact on every level – political, economical and international. It will be or at least could be an immense change on Taiwan’s society, property, livelihood and have impact on the rights and benefits of Taiwan’s citizens. Most important are the enormous but hidden points about this country’s sovereignty and politics. Therefore we believe, in order to face this highly controversial political and public topic, only a referendum is capable of solving opposition and aversion, and will obtain a national consensus. (more…)