Participation in the realization of the human rights to water and sanitation 2014, para. 33
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Some argue that direct participation is unnecessary where structures for representative democracy exist. Decisions by elected representatives would already be regarded as legitimate, given the mandate conferred by the electorate. However, article 25 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights provides both for the right to vote and the right to participate in public affairs. Periodic elections are a blunt instrument for achieving public participation, let alone for ensuring inclusion. The realization of human rights is a dynamic process, and elections alone are not enough. Participatory processes complement representative democratic structures and allow for more direct influence by the public.
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Non-negotiated soft law
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Special Rapporteur on the human rights to safe drinking water and sanitation