Kuteynikov Dmitry Leonidovich, PhD student, chair of constitutional and municipal law, O. E. Kutafin Moscow state law university. Russian Federation, Sadovaya-Kudrinskaya Str., Bld. 19, Moscow, 123995. E-mail: kuteynikov@me.com

The article analyzes historical development of the institution of popular lawmaking initiative in Russia. Origins and main characteristics inherent in different stages of national history are identified. The process of institutionalization of popular lawmaking initiative is traced from the traditional institutions of democracy such as petitions and popular representation. The article also identifies the peculiarities of the present stage and trends of development of popular lawmaking initiative. The experience of the regulation of the institution of democracy at different levels is considered.