PARTICIPATORY DEMOCRACY: A STUDY ON THE NEED TO EXPAND THE LIST OF AUTHORIZED PARTIES TO PROPOSE AMENDMENTS TO THE FEDERAL CONSTITUTION

Abstract

The Brazilian Constitution of 1988 established popular sovereignty as a fundamental principle, enabling the exercise of semi-direct democracy through public participation in referendums, plebiscites, and the popular initiative. This study examines the need to expand the list of those authorized to propose constitutional amendments, allowing citizens to be included in this list, provided they meet certain requirements. Such an expansion would enhance public involvement in the legislative process. The research assesses whether this modification aligns with Brazil’s democratic and constitutional principles, evaluating its compatibility with the current legal framework and its potential to strengthen and enrich Brazilian democracy. Finally, the study seeks to understand the extent of the evidence for the need to adjust the provisions of Article 60, aiming to increase the connection between the Constitution and the will of the people, thus promoting a stronger citizen participation in the legislative process.