Referendi

Referendi is a term encountered in some languages as the plural form of referendum, though in English the common plurals are referendums or referenda. A referendum is a direct vote by eligible voters on a specific proposal, policy, or constitutional amendment, rather than a decision made by elected representatives. Referendi can be binding or advisory depending on the legal framework of a country, and referendums can be mandatory (required by law) or optional (held at the initiative of government or parliament).

Referendums come in several formats. Constitutional referendums aim to approve or reject changes to a constitution. Legislative referendums address ordinary laws or statutes. Some systems also use plebiscites for policy questions that do not alter the constitution. In many places, a referendum’s legal effect depends on the type of majority required, which may include a simple majority, a supermajority, or a double majority (such as a majority of voters nationwide and a majority of regional or state results).

Global practice varies. Switzerland is notable for frequent federal referendums and popular initiatives. Ireland uses constitutional referendums to approve changes to the constitution. Australia employs a double majority requirement for constitutional amendments. In the United States, referenda are mostly state or local matters rather than nationwide, whereas the United Kingdom’s 2016 referendum on European Union membership was advisory in legal effect but politically decisive. Critics argue referendums can oversimplify complex issues, be influenced by turnout fluctuations, or affect minority rights, while supporters see them as a check on representative power and a tool of direct democracy.

See also direct democracy, plebiscite, ballot measure.