referendu

A referendum is a direct vote in which all eligible citizens are asked to approve or reject a particular proposal. Usually it concerns constitutional amendments, legislation, public policy questions, or declarations of national importance. Referendums aim to settle issues directly rather than through elected representatives, though many systems restrict or regulate when and how they may be held.

There are various forms: binding referendums, which produce legal changes; non-binding or consultative referendums, which gauge public opinion but do not automatically alter laws. Some referendums are obligatory, triggered by constitutional provisions or court rulings, while others are initiated by a government or by a petition of citizens. The design can involve a single question or multiple questions on the ballot, and thresholds for turnout or required margins can affect legitimacy.

The procedures for initiating and conducting referendums vary by country. Common steps include proposal or referral by the legislature, public campaigns, collection of signatures in some systems, a formal referendum date, and an official tally that determines the outcome. The legitimacy and enforceability of a referendum depend on the constitutional framework and the electorate's participation.

Referendums have been used to decide major issues such as constitutional reforms, statehood, independence, or social policy. They are central to direct-democracy traditions in some countries, notably Switzerland and certain U.S. states, while others use referendums more sparingly. They can promote legitimacy but also risk majoritarianism, misinformation, or low turnout.