Spain’s referendum on the European Constitution: a double disappointment

Summary:

Despite the huge majority in favour of the European Constitution, the low turnout (42.32%, ie, seventeen points lower than turnout in 1986 when Spain's membership of NATO was at stake) calls into question the Government's two objectives in calling the referendum. The referendum has neither served to open a new space of democratic participation for Spanish society, nor will it serve to export enthusiasm to the rest of the EU in regard to ratification of the Constitutional Treaty. By breaking the psychological barrier of 40% turnout, the referendum cannot be described as a failure, but in view of such low participation the dual purpose can hardly be said to have been fulfilled. In the wake of the relief at having at least beat the crucial 35% turnout figure, the Government, and the political classes at large, which called the referendum unanimously, would do well to reflect calmly upon the causes of the low turnout. In a gesture of solidarity, Spain had hoped to export its enthusiasm, but it now has the responsibility of exporting some useful lessons to its European partners.