As we slouch towards democracy, it is useful to reflect and see if we are moving in the best path and in the right pace. We put meticulous design into a survey which may become a regular tool to self-evaluate and repair our trek towards the republic. The result of this reflection are not encouraging but they form a base-line for future comparison.
Most Kosovars do not see the Parliament as a reflection of the society. A major chunk of respondents feel unrepresented and have refrained from voting. Except voting, Kosovars make less of membership in civic groups. Except membership in religious groups, all other types of membership have dwindled, a sign of serious democratic deficit and a ripe environment for aggressive expressions of public participation. Elected officials mainly meet up with party fans. Undecided voters tend to make their choice only on Election Day, an indication of a high rate of angry votes.
Voters displayed strong support for open lists, at a higher rate than their predilection of candidates over parties. Responses challenge the myth that Kosovo’s political scene is static which often discourages new parties. Only half of the voters voted the same from 2007 to 2010, hardly the stable party scene than has traditionally been believed. A fifth voted differently and the rest abstained. It is encouraging that as families get smaller and attain greater education, Kosovars become more allergic to violations and they change parties. Opposition groups are less antagonistic than non-voters, but even the most powerless Kosovars have not lost the belief in the power of the vote.
