Can digital technologies create a stronger model for democratic participation? The case of Crowdlaw

Abstract

This study attempts to critically assess the democratizing potential of “CrowdLaw,” a form of online participation that its practitioners describe as crowdsourced policy-making. To do so, the study analyzes both the statements of Crowdlaw practitioners gathered at the third “online global conference on #CrowdLaw” and the design and performance of the CrowdLaw platforms for which the author could find a sufficiently complete online presence. Findings about the democratizing potential of CrowdLaw are mixed: on the one hand, the analysis of practitioners’ statements reveals an intention to create broad participation, and discussion forums that encourage deliberation. On the other, a look at the platforms’ design and performance reveals an uneven and incomplete implementation of these intentions.