Introduction: the case for inclusive voting practices. (3rd March 2020)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: James, Toby S.; Garnett, Holly Ann
• Is Part Of: Policy studies. Volume 41:Number 2/3(2020)
• Page Start: 113
• Page End: 130
• Publication Date: 2020-03-03
• Subjects: Electoral integrity -- voting -- electoral management -- democratization -- voter turnout -- electoral administration -- political participation; Policy sciences -- Periodicals; Great Britain -- Economic policy -- Decision making -- Periodicals; Great Britain -- Politics and government -- 1945- -- Decision making -- Periodicals; 320.605
• DOI: 10.1080/01442872.2019.1694657
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0144-2872

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The voter turnout gap has plagued many elections around the world, with differential levels of participation between groups having the potential to effect election results and policy outcomes. Despite this, there has been little empirical or normative theorization of the interventions that can be used redress the turnout gap and other inequalities within the electoral process. This article defines the concept of inclusive voting practices to refer to policy instruments which can reduce turnout inequality between groups and mitigate other inequalities within the electoral process. This is anchored in a strategic-relational theory of structure, agency and political change. Different state responses are conceptualized and the normative case for an interventionist rather than repressive or laissez-faire approaches is set out. A research agenda is set out which is taken up in subsequent articles in this special issue.