---
title: "Recall — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide"
description: "Recall lets voters remove an elected official before their term ends via special vote. In AP Comp Gov, it's evidence of citizen participation and accountability in democracies."
canonical: "https://fiveable.me/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/recall"
type: "key-term"
subject: "AP Comparative Government"
---

# Recall — AP Comp Gov Definition & Exam Guide

## Definition

Recall is a political mechanism that allows voters to remove an elected official from office before their term expires through a special election.

## Review

### Related Terms

- [Referendum](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/referendum): A direct vote by citizens on a specific policy issue or question.
- Initiative: A process that allows citizens to propose new laws or changes to existing laws through petitions.
- [Direct Democracy](/ap-comp-gov/key-terms/direct-democracy): A system where citizens have direct participation and decision-making power in governance rather than through representatives.