Lessons from Veneto: A People’s Referendum for the Western Cape?
In 2014, the region of Veneto, Italy, embarked on an unprecedented journey towards autonomy that resonates with current sentiments in South Africa's Western Cape. Veneto's push for independence was driven by a blend of historical identity, economic dissatisfaction, and a desire for greater self-governance. Despite its significant economic contributions to Italy, Veneto perceived an imbalance in fiscal returns and policy influence, prompting a grassroots movement towards greater regional autonomy.
Veneto speaks
The 2014 referendum in Veneto, although unofficial and not recognized by the Italian government, was a masterclass in grassroots organization and the use of technology for democratic processes. Plebiscite2013, or Plebiscito.eu, a non-governmental organization, was composed of activists, supporters of Veneto independence, and a coalition of pro-independence parties, operated independently of the Italian government without affiliation to any official electoral bodies. They bypassed official electoral systems, primarily by utilizing online voting platforms. This approach not only mitigated interference from national authorities but also demonstrated the practical feasibility of conducting large-scale ballots outside traditional governmental oversight.
The organization aimed to demonstrate the will of the Venetian people regarding independence from Italy through anon-binding referendum. The utilization of digital platforms facilitated voting, allowing for broader participation, including the Venetian diaspora around the world. The use of online voting was a notable feature, intended to circumvent potential legal and political obstacles posed by the national government, which did not sanction the referendum. A group of experienced international observers vetted the systems and processes.
Over the course of a week, more than 2.3million people voted, which represented about 63% of the region’s eligible voters at the time. The results were overwhelmingly in favour of independence, with around 89% supporting the motion. This significant turnout and the clear mandate provided a strong political statement and set the stage for further legal and political actions aimed at gaining real autonomy.
Following this referendum, the success and the clear desire for autonomy expressed by the Venetians compelled the Italian government to negotiate on more practical terms. By 2017, a formal and officially recognized referendum was held. The outcome was clear: Veneto gained increased control over its tax revenues and more influence in policy areas such as education, health, and transportation. This shift towards fiscal federalism has allowed Veneto to tailor local policies to better fit the needs of its citizens, leading to more responsive governance and improved public services.
A blueprint for the Western Cape?
The scenario in Veneto offers a compelling blueprint for the Western Cape, a region with its own unique cultural and economic identity within South Africa. Like Veneto, the Western Cape has consistently expressed a desire for more autonomy, primarily due to its distinct political leanings, cultural richness, and economic capabilities. Despite being one of the most economically vibrant provinces, it has faced continuous central oversight and limited local power, especially in crucial sectors such as policing and public transport.
The case for autonomy in the Western Cape is not just about cultural identity but also about enhancing efficiency and governance. The majority of the electorate has never voted for the ANC in national elections, reflecting a political and ideological divergence from the central government's policies. This disconnect suggests that a more decentralized approach could align governmental functions more closely with the local electorate's preferences and needs.
Adopting a Veneto-like strategy, the Western Cape could consider organizing a privately led advisory referendum to gauge public support for greater autonomy. Although non-binding, such a referendum could serve as a critical indicator of public sentiment and a catalyst for negotiations with the national government. It would also serve as a democratic expression of the people's will, providing a legitimate basis for requesting more control over local resources and policies.
A path worth plotting?
The journey towards autonomy requires careful planning and broad-based engagement. It must ensure inclusivity and transparency to build a strong mandate. Moreover, the Western Cape can learn from Veneto's use of technology in safeguarding and streamlining the voting process, thus setting a high standard for democratic participation that is considered free and fair at the highest standard.
In conclusion, while the contexts of Italy and South Africa are different, the principle of seeking greater regional autonomy to enhance governance and local satisfaction is universally applicable. The Western Cape has a unique opportunity to follow in Veneto's footsteps, using democratic tools to articulate and achieve its aspirations for greater self-governance. This could not only reshape its future but also serve as a model for other regions in South Africa and beyond, demonstrating the power of local initiative and the potential for decentralized governance.
Dr. Joan Swart is an exco member of the Cape Independence Advocacy Group (CIAG) and chief of staff of the Referendum Party. She has a Psy.D. in Forensic Psychology, MBA and an MA in Military Studies.
This article first appeared in Afrikaans in Die Burger: https://www.netwerk24.com/netwerk24/stemme/menings/outonomie-die-wes-kaap-kan-so-by-veneto-leer-20240730
