Referendumo

Referendum is a direct vote in which eligible voters are asked to approve or reject a specific proposal. It is a form of direct democracy that can complement representative institutions. Referendums may be binding, meaning the result must be carried out, or consultative, meaning the outcome informs decision-makers but does not automatically compel action. In some languages, including Lithuanian, the term referendumo appears as the genitive form of referendumas (referendum).

There are several common types of referendums. Constitutional referendums seek to approve or reject amendments to a constitution. Legislative or statutory referendums involve laws or policy measures. Popular referendums are initiated by citizens, often requiring a petition and signature thresholds, while legislative referendums are initiated by a legislature or government. Referendums can be national or local in scope.

The process for a referendum typically involves a legal framework that defines who can initiate it, how proposals are approved, how campaigns are conducted, and what counts as valid votes. After thresholds are met and a date is set, campaign periods allow competing information to be presented. Results are usually determined by a majority of votes cast, though some systems require additional criteria such as turnout thresholds or a double majority (a nationwide majority plus a regional majority) for certain constitutional questions.

Referendums can enhance legitimacy and public participation, but they also carry risks, including low turnout, oversimplification of complex issues, or campaigns that misrepresent information. They require clear questions, accessible information, and safeguards for minority rights and fair campaigning. Notable practice varies widely by country, with Switzerland exemplifying a long tradition of frequent referendums.