Global democracy. Between people's representation and participation

The current impact of globalization, coupled with the expansion of global regulatory instruments, poses a significant challenge to democracy and freedom. This scenario undermines the ideal of freedom as non-domination. While there is widespread consensus on the need for reform in the international system, the specifics of these changes remain unclear. Current approaches to global democracy often neglect public participation, favoring state representation instead. This chapter will address why this oversight is problematic. The chapter is organized into three sections. Firstly, this chapter will explore how reliance on representation alone raises concerns about legitimacy. Secondly, it will argue that public involvement in global affairs should extend beyond mere voting. This aligns with the republican tradition’s emphasis on civic virtue and public deliberation. Finally, the third section calls for a reevaluation of this regulatory ideal. This chapter will demonstrate that meaningful participation in influential decision-making platforms empowers individuals to shape public policy and legislation. This empowerment is crucial for safeguarding against domination.