Transformation of civil society institutions and direct democracy in the process of constitutional adaptation

Modern constitutional systems are facing unprecedented challenges – pandemics, climate disasters, digital transformation, and erosion of trust in institutions – which call into question the ability of the classical model of constitutionalism to ensure resilience and legitimacy. The traditional approach, based on stability, hierarchy, and limitation of power, proves insufficient in the dynamic, uncertain, and multi-actor reality of the 21st century. In this context, there is an increasing demand for more flexible, responsive, and inclusive forms of constitutional regulation that can swiftly adapt to social changes. The institutions of direct democracy and civil society are becoming particularly significant as they increasingly act not just as external corrections but as internal elements of the constitutional order. Global experience – from Estonia and Iceland to Latin American countries – demonstrates that involving citizens in constitutional processes enhances not only legitimacy but also the resilience of the rule of law. The subject of the research is the theoretical model of adaptive constitutionalism, where civil society and direct democracy are viewed as structural components of the constitutional system rather than peripheral elements. The work employs a comprehensive methodological approach, including a systemic analysis of the constitutional order as an open and dynamic system, a comparative legal method, and an institutional approach. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the proposal of an integrative model of adaptive constitutionalism, where the constitution is understood not as a static text but as a process of continuous dialogue between the state, courts, and civil society. The author shows that adaptability is achieved not only through formal amendment procedures but also through informal yet legally significant forms of participation – citizen assemblies, digital platforms, and public initiatives. The research substantiates the need for the institutionalization of these mechanisms, including the introduction of an obligation for authorities to respond to citizens' initiatives and the establishment of a public ombudsman for constitutional issues. It concludes that the future of constitutionalism is tied to a shift from a "constitution for the people" model to a "constitution with the people" model, where legitimacy is ensured not only by procedure but also by the depth of engagement. It emphasizes that without systemic participation by citizens, any constitutional reforms risk remaining formal and ineffective.

adaptive constitutionalism, civil society, direct democracy, constitutional adaptation, digital participation, popular initiative, constitutional dialogue, living constitution, institutionalization, constitutional legitimacy