At Open Zion I continue the discussion about an Israeli referendum on a final peace agreement with the Palestinians. Drawing on Canada’s experience with the 1995 referendum on Quebec’s secession, I argue that the question on the ballot matters a great deal–and that it’s not at all easy to construct an effective one in this case.
A teaser:
On the other hand, a detailed question that includes elements of the agreement would be too long and complex. It might prompt Israelis who want a final agreement but who disagree with specific provisions to reject the thing in its entirety. It might also prompt a renewed fight over specific clauses, even after they’ve been hashed out between Israelis and Palestinians and agreed to—probably after an intense struggle—by the Israeli government.
Follow the link for more.
Mideast Matrix 