Voting Between the Freedom to Choose and the Duty to Participate

Abstract

The text examines the tension between viewing voting as a political right and as a civic duty enforceable through sanctions. In Mexico, the Constitution recognizes citizens’ right to vote. It also establishes their obligation to participate in elections, popular consultations, and recall referendums. Although failing to vote without justification may result in the temporary suspension of citizenship rights, there is no regular procedure that automatically penalizes abstention. Thus, voting in Mexico is constitutionally compulsory, but this obligation is rarely enforced in practice. From a liberal perspective, voluntary voting protects individual autonomy and allows abstention to serve as a valid expression of dissatisfaction. Compulsory voting, however, can increase turnout, reduce socioeconomic bias in the electorate, and improve numerical representativeness. Evidence from other countries shows that its success depends on effective sanctions, strong institutions, clear rules, and adequate conditions for voting. Nevertheless, casting a ballot does not guarantee informed or genuine participation. Compulsory voting may lead to invalid ballots, random choices, or votes cast solely to avoid penalties. The text argues that compulsory voting should not be assessed solely on its ability to increase turnout. Its legitimacy depends on respecting political freedom, uniqueness, and proportionality, while strengthening citizens’ autonomy.