|
total countries/territories: 216
|
|---|
| Country/Territory |
Answers |
Comments |
Verified |
|
Afghanistan
|
c. No information available
|
|
2016/03/14
|
|
Albania
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
The Constitution of the Republic of Albania, art. 81, 150 et seq.
|
2017/05/19
|
|
Algeria
|
a. Yes
|
The president may refer issues of national importance to the people through referendum.
Source:
Constitution, art. 77 (10), 177: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Algeria_2008?lang=en (2017)
https://www.joradp.dz/hfr/consti.htm
|
2019/09/25
|
|
Andorra
|
a. Yes
|
Constitution of Andorra, Art.76: "The Cap de Govern, with the approval of the majority of the Consell General, may request the Coprínceps to call a referendum about political matters."
Source:
Constitution of the Principality of Andorra, art. 76: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/AD/andorra-constitution-1993-1/ ;
IDEA International Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/country-view/42/45
|
2023/06/09
|
|
Angola
|
a. Yes
|
The National Assembly shall be responsible for proposing to the President of the Republic that referendums should be held on relevant matters of national interest.
167 (5) Groups of citizens and the organisations representing them may present proposals for introducing new legislation, under the terms to be defined by law.
Source:
Constitution of 3 February 2010, art. 161 (j), 168: http://www.tribunalconstitucional.ao/uploads/%7B9555c635-8d7c-4ea1-b7f9-0cd33d08ea40%7D.pdf (2017)
|
2017/03/29
|
|
Anguilla
|
b. No
|
e) Referendums were however held on 11th July 1967 to determine the extent of popular support for separation from St Kitts; and on 6th February 1969 for the approval of a constitution for an independent republic of Anguilla. There was no constitutional or legal basis for the holding of those referendums because Anguilla’s status was unconstitutional and illegal.
|
2015/02/27
|
|
Antigua and Barbuda
|
b. No
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" (2008), (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2014/06/06
|
|
Argentina
|
a. Yes
|
At the initiative of the House of Deputies, Congress may submit a bill to popular consultation.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución de la Nación Argentina — Ley 24430, texto oficial ordenado”, art. 40: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-constitucion-nacional-reformas-1994/ (2019);
Referendum Law: "Ley de Consulta popular vinculante y no vinculante — Ley 25432": http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/AR/argentina-ley-25432-referendum-2012/ (2019)
|
2021/12/26
|
|
Armenia
|
a. Yes
|
Laws may be submitted to a referendum upon the request of the National Assembly or the Government.
Source:
Law on Referendum of the Republic of Armenia (2001): http://res.elections.am/images/doc/hanraqve_eng.pdf (2013);
Constitution of the Republic of Armenia, art. 112: http://res.elections.am/images/doc/consist_eng.pdf (2013).
|
2015/12/01
|
|
Aruba
|
c. No information available
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" (2008), (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2017/07/07
|
|
Australia
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" (2008), (https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf)
Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 (amended in 2019): https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2019C00103/f85985f8-e256-4e11-ad31-884ed7f92224
Referendum (Machinery Provisions) Act 1984: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2019C00100/f03f448e-da13-4d34-928b-688bc43735e4
|
2024/09/09
|
|
Austria
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Art. 41, 43 & 60 B-VG, Art. 44, 45 & 46 B-VG, Volksbegehrengesetz 1973 (Law on Public Initiatives), Volksabstimmungsgesetz 1972 (Law on Referenda), Volksbefragungsgesetz 1989 (Law on Public Opinion Polls).
Constitution of Austria, Articles 1-46
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/05/29
|
|
Azerbaijan
|
a. Yes
|
The people of Azerbaijan may resolve any issue related to their rights and interests by means of referendum.
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan (1995) including amendments, article 3: https://president.az/en/pages/view/azerbaijan/constitution
|
2024/11/12
|
|
Bahamas
|
b. No
|
Source:
The Constitution of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas (CCB)
|
2017/03/27
|
|
Bahrain
|
a. Yes
|
The King may conduct a popular referendum on important laws and issues connected with the interests of the State. The issue on which the referendum has been held is considered to have been agreed upon if approved by a majority of the votes cast. The result of the referendum shall be binding on all and effective from the date it is declared and it shall be published on the Official Gazette.
Source:
Constitution, art. 43: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bahrain_2017
|
2024/11/25
|
|
Bangladesh
|
d. Not applicable
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2009/08/21
|
|
Barbados
|
b. No
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook" (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2009/08/21
|
|
Belarus
|
d. Not applicable
|
|
2023/09/13
|
|
Belgium
|
b. No
|
Source:
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/direct-democracy-international-idea-handbook);
The Belgian Constitution
|
2019/04/25
|
|
Belize
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Referendum Law: “Referendum Act, Chapter 10”, Section 2 (1 b): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BZ/belize-referendum-act-2020/ ;
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=23&database_theme=309
|
2025/03/24
|
|
Benin
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic, after consultation with the President of the National Assembly and the President of the Constitutional Court, shall be able to take the initiative of the referendum on any question relative to the promotion of and the reinforcement of human rights, about trans-regional or regional integration and about the organisation of the public authorities. The deputies can, by a 3/4 majority vote, decide to submit any question to a referendum.
Source:
Constitution of 11 December 1990, art. 58, 108
http://www.gouv.bj/sites/default/files/Cour-Constitutionnelle-recueil-des-textes-fondamentaux.pdf (2016)
|
2019/04/05
|
|
Bermuda
|
c. No information available
|
|
2012/05/31
|
|
Bhutan
|
a. Yes
|
4. A National Referendum may be initiated:
(a) On the Command of His Majesty the Druk Gyalpo if He deems a Bill is of national importance but has not been passed in a joint sitting of Parliament;
(b) If a petition on issue of national significance is made by not less than 50% of the total number of members of all Dzongkhag Tshogdues; or
(c) By Parliament, in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution
Article 34: The Druk Gyalpo may command a National Referendum if:
In His opinion a Bill, which is not passed in a joint sitting of Parliament, is of national importance; or
An appeal is made by not less than fifty percent of the total number of members of all Dzongkhag Tshogdues.
Source:
National Referendum Act of the Kingdom of Bhutan, 2008, Article 4: https://www.ecb.bt/wp-content/uploads/2013/04/NationalReferendumActEnglish.pdf
Constitution of Bhutan, Article 34 (2): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Bhutan_2008
|
2024/08/27
|
|
Bolivia
|
a. Yes
|
The approval of any international treaty can be submitted to a referendum if 5% of registered voters ask for it.
Source:
Constitution; "Constitución Política del Estado", art. 259: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BO/bolivia-constitucion-politica-del-estado-vigente/ (2019).
Electoral Law; “Ley del Régimen Electoral — Ley 026-2010”, art. 22: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/BO/bolivia-ley-026-2010-regimen-electoral-vigente/ (2019).
|
2024/12/10
|
|
Bosnia and Herzegovina
|
a. Yes
|
The level of applicability of this laws might be disputable. The law was adopted when Bosnia and Herzegovina was a federal unit of Socialistic Federative Republic of Yugoslavia, which means that the scope and aims of referendum were adjusted to that system. However, the existing Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina, signed as a part of the Dayton Peace Agreement, prescribes in its Annex 2, point 2 ("Continuation of Laws") that "All laws, regulations, and judicial rules of procedure in effect within the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina when the Constitution enters into force shall remain in effect to the extent not inconsistent with the Constitution, until otherwise determined by a competent governmental body of Bosnia and Herzegovina". Even though the Law on Referendum was created in the old, socialistic system, it does not contain any obvious and clear inconsistencies with the Constitution and therefore - it should be valid. In 2016 in Republica Srpska, a referendum on keeping a state holiday was presented to voters (turnout of 56-60%). The amendment went against the BiH Supreme Court.(See https://www.rferl.org/a/balkan-tensions-rise-as-bosnian-serbs-push-ahead-with-banned-referendum/28010813.html)
There is no mention of the Rules of Procedure in either chamber of parliament. There is, however, a mention of the register being used for referendums.
Source:
Law on referendum in SR Bosnia and Herzegovina, Off. Gazette 29/77 and 24/91
"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2025/06/26
|
|
Botswana
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of Botswana: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/BW/botswana-constitution-of-1966-with-amendments-up/view (2014).
Referendum Act, (Chapter 02:10): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/BW/botswana-referendum-act-chapter-02-10/view (2014).
|
2014/10/28
|
|
Brazil
|
a. Yes
|
Brazil has legal provisions for optional referendums at the national level.
Article 14. Popular sovereignty shall be exercised through universal suffrage and direct, secret voting, with equal value for all, and, in accordance with the law, by means of:
I – plebiscite;
II – referendum;
III – popular initiative.
Article 49. It is the exclusive competence of the National Congress:
XV – to authorize referendums and convene plebiscites;
Source:
Constitution of the Federative Republic of Brazil, 1988, Article 2, 14, 18 (3, 4), 49 (XV): https://www.tse.jus.br/legislacao/codigo-eleitoral/constituicao-federal/constituicao-da-republica-federativa-do-brasil
Plebiscites and Referendums:
http://www.tse.jus.br/eleicoes/plebiscitos-e-referendos/plebiscito-e-referendo
Law No. 9,709, of November 18, 1998:
https://www.planalto.gov.br/Ccivil_03/leis/L9709.htm
|
2024/10/24
|
|
Brunei Darussalam
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://publicofficialsfinancialdisclosure.worldbank.org/fdl/sites/fdl/files/assets/law-library-files/Brunei_Constitution_1959_amended%202011_EN.pdf (2013)
|
2013/03/18
|
|
Bulgaria
|
c. No information available
|
Source:
http://www.parliament.bg/en/const
|
2014/10/03
|
|
Burkina Faso
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution as amended in 2015, art. 49: http://www.wipo.int/edocs/lexdocs/laws/fr/bf/bf017fr.pdf (2015)
|
2015/12/04
|
|
Burma (Myanmar)
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of Myanmar: http://burmacampaign.org.uk/media/Constitution-1.pdf (2015).
|
2015/11/20
|
|
Burundi
|
a. Yes
|
The status and the restoration of monarchy can be submitted to referendum.
The President of the Republic can, after consultation with the Vice President of the
Republic, the Prime Minister, the President of the National Assembly and with the
President of the Senate, submit to a referendum any draft of a constitutional,
legislative or other text, likely to have profound repercussions on the life and the
future of the Nation or on the nature or operations of the institutions of the
Republic
Source:
Constitution, art. 4, 203, 282: https://acbc.iom.int/sites/g/files/tmzbdl441/files/Legislation/Countries%20legislations/BURUNDI/Constitution%20of%20Burundi%20of%20_2018_compressed.pdf
|
2025/05/08
|
|
Cambodia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://www.ccc.gov.kh/detail_info_en.php?_txtID=791
|
2023/10/12
|
|
Cameroon
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may decide to submit to referendum any bill or proposal regarding constitutional amendments. In this case, the text is adopted by a simple majority of votes cast.
In addition, the President of the Republic, after consultation with the President of the Constitutional Court, the President of the National Assembly and the President of the Senate, may submit to a referendum any reform bill that could have national implications.
Source:
Constitution Article 36 (4). https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CM/cameroon-constitution-of-cameroon-2008
|
2018/11/07
|
|
Canada
|
a. Yes
|
b) Referendum Act; Canada Elections Act as Adapted for the purposes of a Referendum.
Source:
International Idea (2008):"Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook", (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm).
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Cape Verde
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution of Cape Verde as amended in 2010, art. 4 (1), 103, 157, 158, 160, 175 (i), 203 (2-a), 254 (1-c): http://www.parlamento.cv/Downloads/Constitui%C3%A7%C3%A3o%20da%20Rep%C3%BAblica%20de%20Cabo%20verde,%202010.pdf (2016)
|
2016/05/04
|
|
Cayman Islands
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: “Cayman Islands Constitution Order 2009”, Section 69, 70: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/KY/cayman-islands-constitution-2009/ ;
Referendum Law 2012: “Referendum (Single-member Constituencies) Law 2012”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/KY/cayman-islands-referendum-law-2012/ ;
Referendum Law 2019: “Referendum (People-initiated Referendum Regarding the Port) Law 2019”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/KY/cayman-islands-referendum-law-2019/ ;
|
2021/12/13
|
|
Central African Republic
|
a. Yes
|
Constitutional amendments need a majority of three quarters (3/4) of the members of the National Assembly or are adopted by referendum.
When circumstances so require, the President of the Republic may submit to a referendum, after consulting the Council of Ministers, the Office of the National Assembly and the President of the Constitutional Court, any bill or any law already passed by the National Assembly before its publication.
The text adopted by the people at the referendum is promulgated within fifteen (15) days.
Source:
Electoral Law N° 09.016, Art. 136 - 151: http://ddata.over-blog.com/1/35/48/78/Centrafrique/CODE_ELECTORAL-RCA-2-octobre-2010.pdf (2016);
Constitution, Art. 19, 28, 107: http://www.wipo.int/wipolex/fr/text.jsp?file_id=193706 (2016)
|
2021/04/19
|
|
Chad
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic on the proposal of the Government during the Parliament sessions or on the proposal of the National Assembly published on the Official Journal and on the advice of the Constitutional Council, may submit to a referendum any bill concerning the structure of public power, the approval of a union agreement or the authorization of the ratification of a treaty which, without being contrary to the Constitution, would affect the functioning of the institutions.
Source:
Constitution as amended by Constitutional Law n° 008/PR/2005, art. 82: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Chad_2005.pdf?lang=en (2016)
|
2019/04/23
|
|
Chile
|
a. Yes
|
The only direct democracy mechanism established by law is called 'plebiscite'.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República de Chile (2017)”, art. 128 & 129:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CL/chile-constitucion-politica-de-la-republica-de-1/
|
2025/03/27
|
|
China
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/04
|
|
Cocos (keeling) Islands
|
a. Yes
|
The Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918 also mentions plebscites, used for non-constitutional matters.
Source:
Commonwealth Electoral Act 1918, as amended on 8 March 2019: https://www.legislation.gov.au/Details/C2019C00103
International IDEA Handbook for Direct Democracy (2008), page 192: https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
|
2019/07/11
|
|
Colombia
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic, with the approval of the ministers and the prior approval of the Senate of the Republic, may consult the people on matters of great national importance. The people´s decision will be binding.
Upon the initiative of the government or the citizens, the Congress, through a law which requires the approval of the majority of the members of both chambers, may call a referendum on a bill of constitutional reform which Congress would also include in the law. The referendum will be presented in such a manner that the voters may select from the agenda of the various items those on which they wish to vote favourably and those which they wish to defeat. The approval of constitutional reforms by means of a referendum requires the affirmative vote of over half the voters and the number of these must exceed one-fourth of the total number of citizens included in the electoral rolls.
A group of citizens corresponding to one-tenth of the electoral rolls may solicit from the electoral organization the holding of a referendum for the repeal of a law. This law will be repealed if half plus one of the voters who participate in the referendum so decide as long as and whenever a quarter of the citizens making up the electoral rolls participate in the referendum. There can be no referendum with respect to laws approving international treaties or the budget or laws relating to fiscal or tax matters.
Constitutional amendments approved by Congress can be submitted to a referendum when they involve the rights recognized in Chapter 1 of Title II and their guarantees, the procedures of popular participation, or Congress, if such referendum is requested within the six months subsequent to the promulgation of the legislative act, by five percent of the citizens who make up the electoral rolls. The amendment is defeated by a negative vote of the majority of the voters as long as at least one-fourth of those on the electoral rolls participate in the balloting.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de Colombia”, art. 104, 170, 377, 378:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CO/colombia-constitucion-politica-de-colombia-2016 (2016)
Law 134 of 1994 on political participation: “Ley 134-1994 de participación ciudadana”:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CO/leyes-electorales/colombia-ley-134-de-1994-participacion-ciudadana/ (1994)
|
2024/12/13
|
|
Comoros
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://faolex.fao.org/docs/pdf/com128670.pdf (2016)
|
2025/09/30
|
|
Congo (Brazzaville)
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may, after consultation with the Presidents of both Houses of Parliament, submit to referendum any bill regarding the organization of government, guarantees of fundamental rights and freedoms, the economic and social activities of the State or the ratification of a treaty.
Source:
Constitution, Art. 86: http://www.presidence.cg/files/my_files/constit200102.pdf (2017);
Election law of 24 November 2001, Art. 43: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CG/congo-brazzaville-electoral-law-2001/view (2017)
Election law of 24 November 2001, Amended 2016, Art. 44, 45
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CG/congo-brazzaville-electoral-law-amendments-2016/view (2017)
|
2017/03/29
|
|
Congo (Kinshasa), Democratic Republic of the
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution de la RDC (2011):http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/CD/rdc-constitution-2011/
|
2016/11/30
|
|
Cook Islands
|
c. No information available
|
Source:
Teokoati Joseph, Chief Probation Officer, Probation Service – Ministry of Justice
|
2015/11/06
|
|
Costa Rica
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República de Costa Rica”, art. 102, 105, 123, 129 & 195: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CR/costa-rica-constitucion-politica-reformas-2015.pdf/
|
2018/01/24
|
|
Croatia
|
a. Yes
|
Article 87 (1) The Croatian Parliament may call a referendum on a proposal for the amendment of the Constitution, on a bill, or any other issue within its competence.
(2) The President of the Republic may, at the proposal of the Government and with the counter-signature of the Prime Minster, call a referendum on a proposal for the amendment of the Constitution or any other issue which he considers to be important for the independence, unity and existence of the Republic of Croatia.
Source:
Constitution: Constitution of the Republic of Croatia as revised on 06 July 2010, art. 87.
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Croatia_2013?lang=en
|
2025/04/15
|
|
Cuba
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución de la República de Cuba (2019)”, art. 108: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CU/cuba-constitucion-2019-ace/ ;
Electoral Law: “Ley No. 127, Ley Electoral”, art. 257: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/CU/cuba-ley-electoral-127-2019-ace/
|
2023/09/12
|
|
Cyprus
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of Cyprus 1960 (rev. 2013)
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Cyprus_2013?lang=en
https://www.idea.int/data-tools/country-view/90/45
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Cyprus (North)
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/07
|
|
Czech Republic
|
b. No
|
Art. 2: (2) A Constitutional Act may define when the people exercise state power directly.
--despite the above procedure, there does not appear to be any constitutional act that outlines how citizens may petition the government to force a referendum--
Source:
Constitution: Constitution of the Czech Republic of December 16, 1992 (Amended by Act No. 515/2002 Coll.), art. 2(2).
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Czech_Republic_2013?lang=en (2017)
|
2018/03/02
|
|
Côte d'Ivoire
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic, after consultation with the National Assembly, can submit to a referendum any bill or any matter.
Source:
Constitution, art. 43: http://cndj.ci/constitution.htm (2012)
|
2012/12/17
|
|
Denmark
|
a. Yes
|
In addition to the referendums specified in the constitution, it is possible to call voluntary and not binding referendums.
Source:
The Danish Constitution, Art. 20, 29, 42, 88
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2019/05/27
|
|
Djibouti
|
a. Yes
|
The President may, after consultation with the President of the National Assembly and the President of the Constitutional Council, submit any bill to a referendum.
Source:
Constitution, as amended by Constitutional Law n° 134/AN/06/5 L of 21 Avril 2010, art. 33: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Djibouti_2010.pdf?lang=en (2016)
|
2018/04/02
|
|
Dominica
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2009/10/22
|
|
Dominican Republic
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitución: Constitución de la República Dominicana (2015) art. 210: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/DO/republica-dominicana-constitucion-politica-2015/ (2020)
|
2020/02/05
|
|
Ecuador
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República del Ecuador”, art. 106, 420, 441: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/EC/ecuador-constitucion-2020/ ; Direct Democracy Law: “Ley Orgánica de Participación Ciudadana”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/EC/ecuador-ley-participacion-ciudadana-2011/
|
2025/03/13
|
|
Egypt
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may call for a referendum on important issues relating to the supreme interests of the State. The result of a referendum shall be binding to all state authorities and the general public in all cases.
Source:
Constitution of The Arab Republic of Egypt 2014, art.157: http://www.sis.gov.eg/Newvr/Dustor-en001.pdf (2014).
|
2025/09/30
|
|
El Salvador
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República de El Salvador”, art. 89: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/SV/el-salvador-constitucion-2014/
|
2024/12/19
|
|
Equatorial Guinea
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may submit to referendum any proposal for constitutional amendment.
Source:
Constitution as amended by referendum of 23 November 2011, art. 133 (4)
|
2012/10/03
|
|
Estonia
|
a. Yes
|
Law: § 1: (1) The Riigikogu shall submit any amendment of Chapters 1 and 15 of the Constitution to a referendum. The Riigikogu may submit other draft Acts that amend the Constitution, and other draft Acts or other national issues to a referendum.
Source:
Constitution: The Constitution of the Republic of Estonia with latest amendment on 6 May 2015, § 56, 65, 105 & 162-168.
Law: Referendum Act latest amended 12 October 2016
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm)
|
2019/02/20
|
|
Ethiopia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution, art. 39 (4 - b,c), 47 (3 - b,c,e);
Electoral Law as amended by Proclamation No. 532/2007, art. 32: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/ET/ethiopia-proclamatio-no.-532-2007-amending-the/view
|
2015/05/18
|
|
Falkland Islands (Malvinas)
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “Falkland Islands Constitution Order 2008”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/FK/falkland-islands-constitution-2008/ ;
|
2022/04/19
|
|
Fiji
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/FJ/fiji-constitution-2013/at_download/file (2014).
International IDEA Direct Democracy Database
https://www.idea.int/data-tools/country-view/106/45
|
2018/04/20
|
|
Finland
|
a. Yes
|
The decision to organise a consultative referendum is made by an Act, which shall contain provisions on the time of the referendum and on the choices to be presented to the voters.
Provisions concerning the conduct of a referendum are laid down by an Act.
Source:
Constitution, Section 53: http://www.finlex.fi/fi/laki/kaannokset/1999/en19990731.pdf (2012);
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2019/04/02
|
|
France
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, Art. 11, 60, 88-5, 89
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/France_2008?lang=en
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2020/06/20
|
|
Gabon
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic can submit to referendum any any bill implementing constitutional principles or directly or indirectly related to the functioning of institutions.
Constitutional amendments have to be approved either by referendum or by 2/3 of the Parliament (both chambers - Senate and Chamber of Deputies).
Source:
Constitution (as amended in 2011), art. 18, 116
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Gabon_1997?lang=en (2017)
|
2017/03/24
|
|
Gambia
|
a. Yes
|
The National Assembly may include in a Bill a proposal for a referendum on an issue of national concern defined in the Bill.
Source:
Constitution, sections 102 (d): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Gambia_2004?lang=en (2017)
|
2017/03/21
|
|
Georgia
|
a. Yes
|
The President of Georgia may, at the request of the Parliament of Georgia, the Government of Georgia, or not less than 200 000 voters.
Source:
Constitution of Georgia, art. 52:
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Georgia_2018?lang=en
|
2024/07/24
|
|
Germany
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
Constitution
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/German_Federal_Republic_2014?lang=en
|
2017/03/31
|
|
Ghana
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Ghana (1996): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GH/ghana-constitution-1992-with-amendments-through/
|
2016/10/05
|
|
Gibraltar
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2019/11/04
|
|
Greece
|
a. Yes
|
Τhe President of the Republic shall by decree proclaim a referendum on crucial national matters following a resolution voted by an absolute majority of the total number of Members of Parliament, taken upon proposal of the Cabinet.
A referendum on Bills passed by Parliament regulating important social matters, with the exception of the fiscal ones shall be proclaimed by decree by the President of the Republic, if this is decided by three-fifths of the total number of its members, following a proposal of two-fifths of the total number of its members, and as the Standing Orders and the law for the application of the present paragraph provide.
No more than two proposals to hold a referendum on a Bill can be introduced in the same parliamentary term.
Source:
Constitution, Art. 44:2
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Greece_2008?lang=en
|
2020/07/26
|
|
Greenland
|
c. No information available
|
|
2012/06/14
|
|
Grenada
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2009/10/23
|
|
Guam
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
3 Guam Code Ch. 16 Article 3:
http://www.guamcourts.org/CompilerofLaws/GCA/03gca/3gc016.PDF
|
2020/10/28
|
|
Guatemala
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República de Guatemala”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/GT/constitucion/guatemala-constitucion-politica-2012/ —
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Guatemala_1993.pdf ;
Electoral Law: “Ley Electoral y de Partidos Políticos”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/GT/guatemala-lepp-y-reglamentos-2023/
|
2023/05/29
|
|
Guinea
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution (2010), art. 51: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/GN/guinea-constitution-2010-english-version/view
|
2017/01/26
|
|
Guinea-Bissau
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, art. 85 (b): http://www.anpguinebissau.org/leis/constituicao/constituicaoguine.pdf (2012)
|
2014/06/24
|
|
Haiti
|
d. Not applicable
|
|
2015/04/08
|
|
Holy See (Vatican City State)
|
b. No
|
|
2012/05/14
|
|
Honduras
|
a. Yes
|
Referendum takes place on ordinary laws, constitutional rules or amendments for ratification or disapproval by the citizens.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de 1982", art. 5: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/HN/honduras-constitucion-politica-de-1982-2021/ ;
Direct Democracy Law: "Ley de mecanismos de participación ciudadana (2013)”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/HN/honduras-ley-democracia-directa-2013/
|
2025/08/07
|
|
Hong Kong
|
c. No information available
|
|
2021/06/07
|
|
Hungary
|
a. Yes
|
Parliament may order a national referendum upon the motion of the President of the Republic, the Government or one hundred thousand electors.
Source:
Constitution: The Fundamental Law of Hungary, The State, Article 8(1): http://njt.hu/cgi_bin/njt_doc.cgi?docid=140968.322953.
|
2018/07/30
|
|
Iceland
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/20
|
|
India
|
c. No information available
|
Legal provisions for direct democracy measures are not found in the Constitution or Representation of the Peoples Act.
Source:
The Constitution of India: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/IN/india-constitution-as-amended-to-2007/view
Representation of the People Act, 1950: http://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/03_representation%20of%20the%20people%20act%2C%201950.pdf
Representation of the People Act, 1951: http://legislative.gov.in/sites/default/files/04_representation%20of%20the%20people%20act%2C%201951.pdf
|
2024/09/11
|
|
Indonesia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/ID/indonesia-constitution/view
|
2014/04/02
|
|
Iran, Islamic Republic of
|
a. Yes
|
C:59 "In extremely important economic, political, social, and cultural matters, the functions of the legislature may be exercised through direct recourse to popular vote through a referendum. Any request for such direct recourse to public opinion must be approved by two-thirds of the members of the Islamic Consultative Assembly."
C:123 "The President is obliged to sign legislation approved by the Assembly or the result of a referendum, after the legal procedures have been completed and it has been communicated to him. After signing, he must forward it to the responsible authorities for implementation."
C:177 "(1) The revision of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Iran, whenever needed by the circumstances, will be done in the following manner:
The Leader issues an edict to the President after consultation with the Nation's Exigency Council stipulating the amendments or additions to be made by the Council for Revision of the Constitution which consists of: [...] (3) The decisions of the Council, after the confirmation and signatures of the Leader, shall be valid if approved by an absolute majority vote in a national referendum. (4) The provisions of Article 59 shall not apply to the referendum for the "Revision of the Constitution."
Source:
Constitution of The Islamic Republic of Iran (1989), art. 59, 123 and 177 https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Iran_1989.pdf
(2017)
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008): https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
|
2024/11/19
|
|
Iraq
|
b. No
|
Source:
Iraqi Constitution, Articles 126 (2, 3, 4,), 131, & 142 (3, 4): http://parliament.iq/manshurat/dastoreng.pdf (2012)
|
2018/04/19
|
|
Ireland
|
a. Yes
|
C:27:5 "1° In every case in which the President decides that a Bill the subject of a petition under this Article contains a proposal of such national importance that the will of the people thereon ought to be ascertained, he shall inform the Taoiseach and the Chairman of each House of the Oireachtas accordingly in writing under his hand and Seal and shall decline to sign and promulgate such Bill as a law unless and until the proposal shall have been approved either i by the people at a Referendum in accordance with the provisions of section 2 of Article 47 of this Constitution within a period of eighteen months from the date of the President’s decision,"
Source:
Articles 27 and 47 of the Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hÉireann); the Electoral Act 1992; the Referendum Act 1994; the Electoral (Amendment) Act 1998 and the Referendum Act 2001
Direct Democracy Database: https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=107&database_theme=309
|
2024/11/21
|
|
Israel
|
b. No
|
Source:
International IDEA Direct Democracy Handbook:
https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
|
2019/06/13
|
|
Italy
|
a. Yes
|
The referendum request must be signed by 500,000 voters or presented by at least five regional councils. In a referendum, citizens are asked to vote to amend or repeal a law or other legal binding acts. No referendum is allowed for tax or budget laws, amnesties, pardons, or ratification of international treaties. The referendum succeeds if a majority of those eligible to vote have participated and if the proposal has received a majority of the valid votes.
Another article of the Constitution regulates referendums for laws amending the Constitution and other constitutional acts. Such laws are submitted to popular referendum when, within three months of their publication, a request is made by one fifth of the members of either chamber, by 500.000 voters, or by five regional councils. No referendum may be carried out if the law has been approved by each chamber with a two thirds majority in the second round.
Source:
Constitution, Art. 75 and 138
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Italy_2012?lang=en
|
2020/07/18
|
|
Japan
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008):https://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook_0.pdf
|
2019/07/10
|
|
Jersey
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2009/10/23
|
|
Jordan
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://www.kinghussein.gov.jo/constitution_jo.html (2012)
|
2016/08/05
|
|
Kazakhstan
|
a. Yes
|
Amendments and additions to the Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan may be introduced by a republican referendum, held by decision of the President of the Republic, adopted by him on his own initiative or on the proposal of Parliament or the Government.
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Kazakhstan: amended on June 9th, 2021. Article 91.
https://www.akorda.kz/en/constitution-of-the-republic-of-kazakhstan-50912
|
2024/10/24
|
|
Kenya
|
b. No
|
|
2017/07/07
|
|
Kiribati
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Kiribati_2013
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) https://www.idea.int/publications/catalogue/direct-democracy-international-idea-handbook?lang=en
|
2020/05/03
|
|
Korea, Republic of
|
a. Yes
|
The President may submit important policies relating to diplomacy, national defense, unification, and other matters relating to the national destiny to a national referendum if he deems it necessary.
Source:
The Constitution of the Republic of Korea, Article 72: https://elaw.klri.re.kr/eng_service/lawView.do?lang=ENG&hseq=1
|
2024/08/28
|
|
Kuwait
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://www.pm.gov.kw/en/state_Of_Kuwait/kuwaitConstitution.jsp (2013)
|
2013/01/30
|
|
Kyrgyzstan
|
a. Yes
|
Amendments and modifications to the Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic, laws of the Kyrgyz Republic
and other important issues of state importance may be submitted to the referendum.
A question of the referendum shall be formulated so as to exclude possibility of its multiple
interpretations and so that only a definite answer could be given
Source:
Constitution of the Kyrgyz Republic (2021), art. 2: https://constsot.kg/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/constitution-of-the-kyrgyz-republic.pdf
Constitutional Law on Referendum in Kyrgyz Republic 2016(amended in 2019), art. 7: https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/d2/KYRG_Const%20Law%20on%20Referendum.pdf
|
2025/05/07
|
|
Lao People's Democratic Republic
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/asia/LA/Lao-People2019s-Democratic-Republic-Constitution/view
|
2021/02/28
|
|
Latvia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Law: Law on National Referendum and Initiation of Legislation as amended till 26 February 2009.
|
2014/10/03
|
|
Lebanon
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://www.presidency.gov.lb/English/LebaneseSystem/Documents/Lebanese%20Constitution.pdf
https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=124&database_theme=309
|
2024/11/20
|
|
Lesotho
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008)
|
2017/07/19
|
|
Liberia
|
b. No
|
Source:
The 1986 Constitution of the Republic of Liberia, Art. 91 & 92, http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/LR/liberia-amended-electoral-laws-2014/view
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
|
b. No
|
Choose a constitutive body for the formulation of a draft constitution called the committee for the elaboration of the constitution which shall present a draft constitution to the Congress within a period not exceeding sixty days following its first meeting. The draft constitution shall be approved by the National General Congress and be submitted to a yes-or-no referendum within thirty days following its adoption by Congress. If the Libyan people approve the constitution by a two-thirds-majority of voters, the committee shall certify the text as the constitution of the country and it shall be promulgated by Congress.
Source:
The Constitutional Declaration, Art. 30. (National Transitional Council of Libya): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Libya_2011
|
2024/11/25
|
|
Liechtenstein
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution of the Principality of Liechtenstein [2014], Articles 66, 66bis, 112, and 113.
https://www.llv.li/files/rdr/Verfassung-E-01-02-2014.pdf
|
2022/08/02
|
|
Lithuania
|
a. Yes
|
Article 5: Consultative (deliberative) referendums may be held with respect to other issues of utmost importance to the State and the People, regarding which it is not necessary to hold a mandatory referendum, they are being proposed for a referendum by 300 thousand citizens having the right to vote or the Seimas.
Source:
Republic of Lithuania, Law on Referendum (4 June 2002, As last amended on 6 May 2014 — No XII-860), art. 5
https://e-seimas.lrs.lt/portal/legalAct/lt/TAD/7b65c002233a11e6acbed8d454428fb7?jfwid=nz8qn8fey
|
2019/04/15
|
|
Luxembourg
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Law on Referendum on a national level; https://legilux.public.lu/eli/etat/leg/loi/2005/02/04/n1/jo
Constitution, Art. 51(7), 114: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Luxembourg_2009
|
2024/11/21
|
|
Macedonia, the Former Yugoslav Republic of
|
a. Yes
|
Constitution:
Article 73:
The Assembly decides on issuing notice of a referendum concerning specific matters within its sphere of competence by a majority vote of the total number of Representatives. The decision of the majority of voters in a referendum is adopted on condition that more than half of the total number of voters voted. The Assembly is obliged to issue notice of a referendum if one is proposed by at least 150,000 voters. The decision made in a referendum is binding.
Law on Referendum:
Article 24:
Referendum at state level may also be scheduled in case of a need of ratification of international
agreements and other issues within the competence of the Assembly (previous referendum) and
decisions adopted by the Assembly or for the purpose of citizens stating their opinion regarding
other issues the Assembly has already decided upon (additional referendum).
Article 25:
Referendum at state level may be scheduled for issues that shall be regulated by law (previous
referendum) or for the purpose of re-evaluating a law being previously adopted (additional
referendum).
Article 26:
For issues of broader significance to the citizens and the Republic a consultative referendum may be announced.
The decision made on the consultative referendum shall not oblige the Assembly.
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of North Macedonia, art. 73.
https://www.sobranie.mk/the-constitution-of-the-republic-of-macedonia-ns_article-constitution-of-the-republic-of-north-macedonia.nspx
Law on Referendum and other forms of direct vote of citizens, art. 24-26:
https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/a9/NMAC_on%20referendum.pdf
|
2024/11/20
|
|
Madagascar
|
a. Yes
|
The President may decide to call a referendum on any significant national issue.
Source:
Constitution, art. 55 (5): http://www.ceni-madagascar.mg/dossier/constitution.pdf (2013)
|
2013/02/12
|
|
Malawi
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/12
|
|
Malaysia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: http://confinder.richmond.edu/admin/docs/malaysia.pdf (2013)
|
2013/03/21
|
|
Maldives
|
a. Yes
|
If the President does not assent to the Bill amending the Constitution passed by the People’s Majlis and so informs the People’s Majlis, the People’s Majlis may within a period determined by the People’s Majlis call for a public referendum to vote on the adoption or rejection of the Bill.
In addition, the President can hold public referendums on issues of national importance.
Source:
Constitution (2008), art. 70 (b-6), 115 (p), 264: http://www.majlis.gov.mv/en/wp-content/uploads/Constitution-english.pdf (2018)
|
2019/02/13
|
|
Mali
|
a. Yes
|
C:41 "The President of the Republic, by proposal of the Cabinet, during the duration of its sessions or by proposal of the National Assembly, after the opinion of the Constitutional Court is published in the Official Journal, may place under referendum any and all questions of national interest, any law related to the organization of public powers, consisting of an approval of an accord of union or an authorization of a treaty which, without being unconstitutional, would have effect on the function of the Institutions. When the referendum has concluded that the proposal is to be adopted, the President of the Republic shall promulgate it in the manner prescribed in Article 40."
Source:
The Constitution of the Republic of Mali, art. 41
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2006/12/30
|
|
Malta
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
The Referenda Act (Cap.237), Art. 3 (1): http://www.maltadata.com/ref-act.htm (2012)
|
2012/05/22
|
|
Marshall Islands
|
a. Yes
|
A petition signed by at least 25% of eligible voters can request the holding of a Constitutional Convention to consider specified amendments.
Source:
Constitution, art. XII (3-4). https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Marshall_Islands_1995
|
2023/10/12
|
|
Mauritania
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may submit to a referendum any question of national importance.
Source:
Constitution as amended by Constitutional Law n° 2012-015, art. 38: www.mauritania.mr (2012)
|
2024/10/28
|
|
Mauritius
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/02/25
|
|
Mexico
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: "Constitución Política de los Estados Unidos Mexicanos", art. 35 (VIII & IX): https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/MX/mexico-constitucion-2024/ ;
Referendum Law: "Ley Federal de Consulta Popular", arts. 5–6: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/MX/mexico-lfcpo-2024/ ;
Recall Law: “Ley Federal de Revocación de Mandato”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/MX/mexico-lfrm-2022/
|
2024/04/12
|
|
Micronesia, Federated States of
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy Database, IDEA, https://www.idea.int/data-tools/data/country?country=145&database_theme=309
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Moldova, Republic of
|
a. Yes
|
Referenda are always held on an ad hoc basis when a majority of the parliament calls for one. The parliament and local councils may organize advisory referendums on any issue.
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2021/03/30
|
|
Monaco
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution
|
2012/04/27
|
|
Mongolia
|
a. Yes
|
25.1.16. The State Great Hural (Parliament) may consider at its own initiative any issue pertaining to domestic and foreign policies of the State, and the following matters within its exclusive prerogative shall be vested therein and decided upon: Hold national referendums (plebiscites). Verify the validity of a referendum in which the majority of citizens who are qualified for elections have participated, and to consider the question which obtained a majority vote as decided
68. 2. A national referendum on the issue of proposed amendments or changes to the Constitution may be conducted with a supporting vote of at least two thirds by the members of the State Great Hural (Parliament). A referendum shall be conducted in accordance with the grounds in Clause 16 of Section 1 of Article Twenty Five of the Constitution.
Source:
Constitution, Art. 25 (1.16), 68: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Mongolia_2001?lang=en (2017)
|
2020/02/17
|
|
Montenegro
|
a. Yes
|
Article 3: (2) The republican referendum can be called for the purpose obtaining an opinion of citizens prior to making a decision on specific issues lying within the competence of the Assembly of the Republic.
Source:
Law: Law on Referendum as of 19 February 2001, art. 3(2).
https://www.venice.coe.int/webforms/documents/default.aspx?pdffile=CDL(2005)076-e
|
2021/12/25
|
|
Morocco
|
a. Yes
|
Article 172(b): The King can submit directly to referendum the bill of revision of which He takes the initiative.
Source:
Morocco's Constitution of 2011, Article 172: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Morocco_2011.pdf
|
2022/08/02
|
|
Mozambique
|
a. Yes
|
Questions of national interest may be subject to a referendum.
Source:
Constitution, art. 73, 136, 159 (c), 179 (2-f): http://www.portaldogoverno.gov.mz/Legisla/constituicao_republica/constituicao.pdf (2013)
|
2013/04/15
|
|
Namibia
|
a. Yes
|
C:63 "(1) The National Assembly, as the principal legislative authority in and over Namibia, shall have the power, subject to this Constitution, to make and repeal laws for the peace, order and good government of the country in the best interest of the people of Namibia. (2) The National Assembly shall further have the power and function, subject to this Constitution: [...] g) to initiate, approve or decide to hold a referendum on matters of national concern;"
C:132 "If a Bill proposing... a repeal and/or amenment of any the provisions of this constitution secures a majority of two-thirds of all the members of the National Assembly, but fails to secure a majority of two-thirds of all the members of the National Council, the President may by proclamation make the bill the subject of a national referendum."
Source:
Constitution: Constitution of the Republic of Namibia, Ch. 19, Art 63 & Art 132, Sec 3 (a).
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) (http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/12
|
|
Nauru
|
b. No
|
Referenda are only conducted regarding Constitutional amendments.
Source:
Constitution 1968, Art. 84.
|
2019/07/11
|
|
Nepal
|
a. Yes
|
If a two-thirds majority of the total number of the then members of the federal parliament decides that it is necessary to take decision on any issue of national importance through referendum, such issue may be decided through referendum.
Source:
Constitution of Nepal 2015, Article 275:
http://www.lawcommission.gov.np/en/documents/2016/01/constitution-of-nepal-2.pdf
Article
|
2018/04/06
|
|
Netherlands
|
b. No
|
Legal provisions for Optional Referendum were repealed in 2018.
Source:
Wet raadgevend referendum: https://wetten.overheid.nl/BWBR0036443/2015-07-01
|
2022/08/02
|
|
New Zealand
|
a. Yes
|
Citizens Initiated Referendums and Government Initiated Referendums. Government Initiated Referendums may be binding or indicative.
Source:
Electoral Referendum Act 1993: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1993/0086/latest/DLM307166.html?search=ts_act_electoral_resel (2017);
Electoral Referendum Act 2010: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2010/0139/latest/whole.html?search=ts_act_electoral+referendum+act+2010_resel&p=1 (2017);
Referendums Framework Act 2019 Part 2:
http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2019/0071/latest/LMS215774.html?src=qs
https://www.parliament.nz/en/visit-and-learn/how-parliament-works/parliamentary-practice-in-new-zealand/chapter-40-referendums/
Citizens Initiated Referenda Act 1993: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/1993/0101/latest/DLM317193.html?search=ts_act_citizens_resel (2017);
Referenda (Postal Voting) Act 2000: http://www.legislation.govt.nz/act/public/2000/0048/latest/DLM73881.html?search=ts_act_postal_resel (2017)
|
2024/07/12
|
|
Nicaragua
|
a. Yes
|
A minimum of 50 000 signatures is required to the initiative by referendum.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de Nicaragua (2014)”, art. 2:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/NI/constitucion/constitucion-politica-de-nicaragua-con-reformas-a/ (2016);
Electoral Law No. 331: “Ley Electoral No. 331 (enmendada por la ley No. 790 del 23/05/2012)”, art. 133 - 138:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/NI/leyes-electorales/nicaragua-ley-no.-331-ley-electoral-2012/ (2016).
|
2016/06/07
|
|
Niger
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may, after consulting the National Assembly and the President of the Constitutional Court, submit to a referendum any text which seems likely to require direct consultation with the people.
Source:
Constitution of 25 November 2010 with its amendments, art. 60: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Niger_2010.pdf (2016);
Ordinance No. 2010-96 of 28 December 2010 establishing the Electoral Code, art. 129: http://www.electionpassport.com/files/Niger-Electoral-Code-2010.pdf (2016)
|
2016/05/04
|
|
Nigeria
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution 1999 (as amended): http://www.wipo.int/wipolex/en/text.jsp?file_id=179202 (2013);
Electoral Act 2010: http://www.inecnigeria.org/downloads/?did=5 (2013)
|
2015/03/30
|
|
Niue
|
b. No
|
Only proposed constitutional changes may be put to referendum. There are no provisions for other forms of referenda.
Source:
Cosntitution.
|
2014/06/23
|
|
Northern Mariana Islands
|
a. Yes
|
The ballot may include questions concerning proposed Commonwealth constitutional amendments or proposed initiative or referendum issues.
Source:
https://cnmilaw.org/pdf/public_laws/12/pl12-18.pdf
Election law 6208 (e)
|
2024/12/11
|
|
Norway
|
b. No
|
Referenda are always held on an ad hoc basis when a majority of the parliament calls for one. The parliament and local councils may organize advisory referendums on any issue.
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/05/22
|
|
Oman
|
b. No
|
Source:
Basic Statute of the State, as amended by Royal Decree No. 99/2011: https://constitutionnet.org/sites/default/files/oman_basic_statute_of_the_state_2011-english.pdf
|
2025/05/12
|
|
Pakistan
|
a. Yes
|
If, at any time, the President, in his discretion, or on the advice of the Prime Minister, considers that it is desirable that any matter of national importance should be referred to a referendum, the President may cause the matter to be referred to a referendum in the form of a question that is capable of being answered either by "Yes" or "No".
Source:
Constitution, Art. 48 (6)
https://na.gov.pk/uploads/documents/1333523681_951.pdf
|
2024/02/07
|
|
Palau
|
a. Yes
|
An amendment to this Constitution may be proposed by a Constitutional Convention, popular initiative, or by the Olbiil Era Kelulau, as provided herein: at least once every fifteen (15) years, the Olbiil Era Kelulau may submit to the voters the question: “Shall there be a Convention to revise or amend the Constitution?”. If a majority of the votes cast upon the question is in the affirmative, a Constitution Convention shall be convened within six (6) months thereafter, in a manner prescribed by law...
Source:
Constitution, Art. IX.
|
2016/11/04
|
|
Palestine
|
b. No
|
Source:
Palestinian Basic Law: http://www.osservatorioiraq.it/sites/default/files/Palestinian%20Basic%20Law%20with%20Amendements%20-%20english.pdf (2013)
|
2013/04/09
|
|
Panama
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Política de la República de Panamá”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PA/panama-constitucion-politica-de-la-republica-2004
Electoral Code: “Código Electoral”: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PA/panama-codigo-electoral-2023/
|
2024/12/05
|
|
Papua New Guinea
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of the Independent State of Papua New Guinea: http://www.igr.gov.pg/constitution.pdf (2017)
|
2017/03/16
|
|
Paraguay
|
a. Yes
|
C:TII:ChX:121 "A legislative referendum, approved by law, can be either binding or nonbinding. A law will regulate this institution."
EL:260 “The initiative for the consultation via referendum is exclusive duty of the Executive Power, five Senators or ten representatives. There shall be no referendum during the state of exception or within the 90 days subsequent to its removal. Also, it shall not be called within the previous 90 days and subsequent 90 days to the date of general elections or municipal elections or of another referendum."
Source:
Electoral Law: Código Electoral Paraguayo (Ley 834/96), art. 259-275:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PY/paraguay-codigo-electoral-2014/ (2014)
|
2023/03/16
|
|
Peru
|
a. Yes
|
They may be subject to a referendum:
1. The total or partial reform of the Constitution;
2. The adoption of laws;
3. City ordinances, and
4. Matters relating to the decentralization process.
Source:
Constitution as amended by Law No 29402 of 2011, art. 32: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PE/constitucion/peru-constitucion-politica-2011/ (2016);
Law Nº 26300 on Political participation and control rights of the citizens:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PE/peru-ley-de-los-derechos-de-participacion-y/ (2016)
|
2016/02/18
|
|
Philippines
|
a. Yes
|
Constitutional Provisions:
Art. VI, Sec. 32: The Congress shall, as early as possible, provide for a system of initiative and referendum, and the exceptions therefrom, whereby the people can directly propose and enact laws or approve or reject any act or law or part thereof passed by the Congress or local legislative body after the registration of a petition therefor signed by at least ten per centum of the total number of registered voters, of which every legislative district must be represented by at least three per centum of the registered voters thereof.
Art. XVII, Sec. 3: The Congress may, by a vote of two-thirds of all its Members, call a constitutional convention, or by a majority vote of all its Members, submit to the electorate the question of calling such a convention.
Source:
Constitution, Art. VI, Sec. 32; Art. XVII, Sec. 3: http://www.gov.ph/constitutions/1987-constitution/ (2016)
Republic Act No. 6735 "The Initiative and Referendum Act": http://www.comelec.gov.ph/?r=References/RelatedLaws/ElectionLaws/OtherElectionLaws/RA6735 (2016)
|
2016/05/12
|
|
Poland
|
a. Yes
|
Granting of consent for ratification of such agreement may also be passed by a nationwide referendum in accordance with the provisions of Article 125.
A nationwide referendum may be held in respect of matters of particular importance to the State.
Source:
Election Code: Act of 5 January 2011 on Election Code to the Sejm of the Republic of Poland and to the Senate of the Republic of Poland, articles 90 (3) and 125: https://legislationline.org/sites/default/files/documents/40/POL_Election%20Code.pdf
The Act of 14th March 2003 on nation-wide referendum
|
2024/11/13
|
|
Portugal
|
a. Yes
|
Article 115(1):
Upon a proposal submitted by the Assembly of the Republic or the Government in relation to matters that fall within their respective competences, in the cases provided for and as laid down in the Constitution and the law, the President of the Republic may decide to call upon citizens who are registered to vote in Portuguese territory to directly and bindingly pronounce themselves by referendum.
Source:
Constitution of the Portuguese Republic, Seventh Revision [2005], Articles 115(1):
https://www.parlamento.pt/sites/EN/Parliament/Documents/Constitution7th.pdf
|
2024/10/10
|
|
Puerto Rico
|
c. No information available
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución del Estado Libre Asociado de Puerto Rico”, art. VII (s. 1, 2): http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PR/puerto-rico-constitucion-1970/ ;
Electoral Law: “Código Electoral de Puerto Rico de 2020”, art. 11.001–11.010: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/PR/puerto-rico-ley-58-2020-codigo-electoral-2020/
|
2020/11/03
|
|
Qatar
|
a. Yes
|
The Amir may conduct a public referendum on important issues pertaining to the interests of the State. The subject of such a
referendum shall be deemed acceptable if acknowledged by the majority of voters; and the results of the referendum shall be binding and effective from the date of its announcement. The results shall be published in The Official Gazette
Source:
Constitution, art. 75: https://www.gco.gov.qa/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/permanent_constitution_state_qatar_en.pdf
|
2025/05/08
|
|
Romania
|
a. Yes
|
Article 90: The President of Romania may, after consultation with Parliament,
ask the people to express, by referendum, its will on matters of national
interest.
Source:
Constitution: Constitution of Romania, amended in 2003, art. 90.
http://www.cdep.ro/pls/dic/site.page?den=act2_2&par1=3#t3c2s0a90 (2014)
|
2020/08/24
|
|
Russian Federation
|
a. Yes
|
In Russia, an optional referendum can relate to a new constitution as a whole, on the initiative of the constituent assembly.
Source:
EUROPEAN COMMISSION FOR DEMOCRACY THROUGH LAW (VENICE COMMISSION) REFERENDUMS IN EUROPE – AN ANALYSIS OF THE LEGAL RULES IN EUROPEAN STATES: https://www.venice.coe.int/webforms/documents/default.aspx?pdffile=CDL-AD(2005)034-e
|
2024/03/27
|
|
Rwanda
|
a. Yes
|
Upon the proposal of the Cabinet and after receiving an advisory opinion of the Supreme Court, the President of the Republic may call a referendum on issues of general national interest, on a bill of an ordinary Law, on a bill of an Organic Law or Decree relating to the signature of an international treaty or agreement which is not inconsistent with the Constitution but has repercussions on functioning of state institutions.
Source:
Constitution (2015), Art. 107: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/RW/rwanda-constitution-versions-francaise-et-anglaise/
|
2017/03/03
|
|
Saint Kitts and Nevis
|
a. Yes
|
Every person who, at the time when a referendum is held for the purposes of this section, would be entitled to vote in elections of Representatives held in the island of Saint Christopher shall be entitled to vote on that referendum in that island; every person who, at that time, would be entitled to vote in elections of Representatives held in the island of Nevis shall be entitled to vote on that referendum in that island: and no other person shall be entitled to vote on that referendum in the island of Saint Christopher or, as the case may be, in the island of Nevis.
Not less than two-thirds of all the votes validly cast on that referendum in the island of Saint Christopher and two-thirds of all the votes validly cast on that referendum in the island of Nevis.
Source:
Constitution of Saint Kitts and Nevis
|
2020/04/20
|
|
Saint Lucia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2009/10/26
|
|
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
|
b. No
|
Source:
St. Vincent and the Grenadines and Electoral Law
|
2021/12/27
|
|
Samoa
|
c. No information available
|
|
2021/04/10
|
|
San Marino
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Law n.101 of 28 November 1994 "New Rules for referendum and people's legislative initiative": http://www.consigliograndeegenerale.sm/contents/instance18/files/document/21630leggi_5165.pdf (2012);
Constitution, Art. 3 bis, (Available on the Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.consigliograndeegenerale.sm)
|
2012/05/28
|
|
Sao Tome and Principe
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, Art. 123 (2):https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Sao_Tome_and_Principe_1990.pdf?lang=en (2016)
|
2016/06/28
|
|
Saudi Arabia
|
b. No
|
Source:
The Basic Law of Governance: http://www.boe.gov.sa/ViewSystemDetails.aspx?lang=en&SystemID=4 (2012)
|
2012/08/20
|
|
Senegal
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic can, after having collected the opinion of the President of National Parliament, of the President of the Senate and the Constitutional Council, submit any constitutional bill to a referendum. He can, on a proposal from the Prime Minister and after having consulted with the authorities indicated above, submit any bill to referendum.
Source:
Constitution 2012, art. 51: http://www.assemblee-nationale.sn/images/stories/PDF/constitution_du_senegal.pdf (2013)
English: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Senegal_2009?lang=en (2017)
|
2017/03/22
|
|
Serbia
|
a. Yes
|
Article 108
Upon the request of the majority of all deputies or at least 100,000 voters, the National Assembly shall call the referendum on issues falling within its competence, in accordance with the Constitution and Law.
Artilce 203:
The National Assembly shall adopt an act on amending the Constitution by a two-third majority of the total number of deputies and may decide to have it endorsed in the republic referendum by the citizens.
Source:
Constitution: Constitution of the Republic of Serbia, art. 108, 203.
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/RS/constitution-of-the-republic-of-serbia-2006/view
|
2017/03/15
|
|
Seychelles
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Seychelles (2011). Art. 164
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SC/seychelles-constitution-2011/view
Elections Act Chapter 68A (1996). Part IV section 54
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SC/seychelles-electoral-act-1996/view
|
2025/03/03
|
|
Sierra Leone
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution (2008), art. 37 & 108: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SL/sierra-leone-constitution-2008/view
|
2017/01/16
|
|
Singapore
|
b. No
|
Unless the President, acting in his discretion, otherwise directs the Speaker in writing, a Bill seeking to amend any constitutional provision, which authorises the President to act in his discretion, shall not be passed by Parliament unless it has also been supported at a national referendum by not less than two-thirds of the total number of votes cast by the electors registered.
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Singapore, art. 5 (2A): https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Singapore_2010?lang=en (2017)
|
2017/03/24
|
|
Slovakia
|
a. Yes
|
Article 93
(1)A referendum is used to confirm a constitutional law on entering into a union with other states, or on withdrawing from that union.
(2)A referendum can be used to decide also on other important issues of public interest.
(3)Basic rights and freedoms, taxes, levies and the state budget may not be the subject of a referendum.
Article 94
Every citizen of the Slovak Republic who has the right to vote in elections of the
National Council of the Slovak Republic is entitled to participate in the referendum.
Article 95
(1) The referendum is called by the President of the Slovak Republic if requested by a
petition signed by a minimum of 350,000 citizens, or on the basis of a resolution of the
National Council of the Slovak Republic, within 30 days after the receipt of the citizens'
petition, or the resolution of the National Council of the Slovak Republic.
(2) The President of the Slovak Republic may, before calling a referendum, file with the
Constitutional Court of the Slovak Republic a petition for a decision whether the subject of
the referendum, which should be called on the basis of a citizens’ petition or a resolution of
the National Council of the Slovak Republic pursuant to paragraph 1, is in compliance with
the Constitution or a constitutional law. If the President of the Slovak Republic files with
the Constitutional Court of the Slovak Republic a petition for a decision whether the
subject of the referendum which should be called on the basis of a citizens’ petition or a
resolution of the National Council of the Slovak Republic is in compliance with the
Constitution or a constitutional act, the period pursuant to paragraph 1 shall not continue
from filing of a petition by the President of the Slovak Republic until the decision of the
Constitutional Court of the Slovak Republic becomes effective.
Article 96
(1) The motion to pass a resolution of the National Council of the Slovak Republic on
calling a referendum may be introduced by Members of Parliament, or by the Government
of the Slovak Republic.
(2) A referendum shall be held within 90 days from the day it was called by the
President of the Slovak Republic.
Article 97
(1) A referendum may not be held within 90 days prior to elections to the National
Council of the Slovak Republic.
(2) A referendum may be held on the day of elections to the National Council of the
Slovak Republic.
Article 98
(1) The results of the referendum are valid if more than one-half of eligible voters
participated in it and if the decision was endorsed by more than one half of the participants
in the referendum.
(2) The proposals adopted in the referendum will be promulgated by the National
Council of the Slovak Republic in the same way as it promulgates laws.
Article 99
(1) The National Council of the Slovak Republic may amend or annul the result of a
referendum by means of a constitutional law no sooner than three years after the result of
the referendum came into effect.
(2) A referendum on the same issue may be repeated no sooner than three years from
the day it was held.
Article 100
A law shall lay down the manner in which the referendum will be carried out.
Source:
The Constitution of the Slovak Republic, Articles 93-100
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/SK/constitution-of-the-slovak-republic-as-amended-to/view
|
2024/10/25
|
|
Slovenia
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution Article 90
https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Slovenia_2013?lang=en
|
2017/03/30
|
|
Solomon Islands
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of 1978,amended 2014: https://constituteproject.org/constitution/Solomon_Islands_2014.pdf?lang=en.(2019)
|
2019/03/01
|
|
Somalia
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Transitional Constitution of 2012, Art. 141: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/SO/somalia-provisional-constitution-of-2012/view
|
2016/11/25
|
|
South Africa
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2014/05/01
|
|
South Sudan
|
a. Yes
|
The President, or the National Legislature, through a resolution passed by more than half of all its members, may refer for a referendum any matter of public interest.
Source:
Transitional Constitution 2011, art. 193 (1): http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/docid/4e269a3e2.html%C2%A0 (2012)
|
2021/06/02
|
|
Spain
|
a. Yes
|
A bill on constitutional amendments can be submitted to ratification by referendum if requested by 1/10 of the members of either House. A consultative referendum can be called for decisions of special importance.
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución Española”, art. 92 & 152:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/europe/ES/espana-constitucion-espanola-2011-2016/
|
2025/04/24
|
|
Sri Lanka
|
a. Yes
|
The President may submit to the People by Referendum any matter which in the opinion of the President is of national importance.
Source:
Constitution, Art. 86: http://www.parliament.lk/constitution/constitution.jsp (2012);
The Referendum Act of 1981: http://www.commonlii.org/lk/legis/num_act/ra7o1981166/index.html (2012)
|
2016/02/15
|
|
Sudan
|
a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic or the National Assembly, by resolution passed by more than half of the members, may refer to referendum any matter of national or public interest.
Source:
The Interim National Constitution of 2005, art. 217: http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/docid/4ba749762.html (2012)
|
2012/09/04
|
|
Suriname
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, Art. 186: http://pdba.georgetown.edu/Constitutions/Suriname/english.html (2012)
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Swaziland
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2012/06/12
|
|
Sweden
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
The Instrument of the Government Ch. 8, Section 4, 15: Official Website of the Parliament: http://www.riksdagen.se/sv/Start/Bestall/Sprakversioner/English---engelska1/Sveriges-grundlagar-och-riksdagsordningen1/ (2012);
Act on National Referenda (SFS 1979:369): http://www.sweden.gov.se/content/1/c6/06/97/09/436f8d27.pdf (2012)
|
2014/08/04
|
|
Switzerland
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, Art. 141: https://www.admin.ch/opc/en/classified-compilation/19995395/201506140000/101.pdf (2014)
Electoral Law of 17 December 1976 regulating political rights, Art. 10 - 15, 59, 76: http://www.admin.ch/opc/en/classified-compilation/19760323/index.html (2014).
|
2025/03/28
|
|
Syrian Arab Republic
|
a. Yes
|
C:Ch2:Part1:55 "The law provides for elections and plebiscites. It defines the conditions to be met by members of the People's Assembly."
Source:
The 1973 Constitution of the Syrian Arab Republic, art. 55
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/publications/direct_democracy/index.cfm
|
2014/06/03
|
|
Taiwan
|
a. Yes
|
|
2020/04/13
|
|
Tajikistan
|
a. Yes
|
Referendum in the Republic of Tajikistan is a national voting on the more important issues of state and public life.
Source:
Constitutional Law of the Republic of Tajikistan on Referendum in the Republic of Tajikistan (1995), art. 1, 2:
|
2025/02/18
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Tanzania, United Republic of
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b. No
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Source:
Constitution: http://www.tz.undp.org/ESP/docs/Legal_Documents/Tanzania_Constitution.pdf (2013);
The Constitutional Review Act No. 8 of 2011 as amended by the Act No. 2 of 2012: http://polis.parliament.go.tz/PAMS/docs/8Eng-2011.pdf (2013)
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2013/03/13
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Thailand
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a. Yes
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In case of a reasonable cause, the Council of Ministers may
request to have a public referendum conducted in respect of a matter which is not contrary to or inconsistent with the Constitution, or a matter which is not concerned with a person or a group of persons, as provided by law
Source:
Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand, Art. 166: https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Thailand_2017
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2023/10/11
|
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Timor-Leste
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a. Yes
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Voters who are registered in the national territory may be called upon to express their opinions in a referendum on issues of relevant national interest. A referendum shall only be binding where the number of voters is higher than half of the registered electors.
Source:
Constitution of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste, articles 66, 85 (f), 95 (3-k), 115 (2-d): https://timor-leste.gov.tl/wp-content/uploads/2010/03/Constitution_RDTL_ENG.pdf
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2024/11/14
|
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Togo
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a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution, art. 144 (4): http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/country,LEGAL,,LEGISLATION,TGO,456d621e2,48ef43c72,0.html (2013)
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2013/01/10
|
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Tonga
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b. No
|
Source:
Constitution of Tonga: https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/TO/Tonga%20Act%20of%20Constitution%201988.pdf/view (2021)
|
2021/09/15
|
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Trinidad and Tobago
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b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitution of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/TT/trinidad-and-tobago-constitution-2016/ ;
Electoral Law: “Representation of the People Act”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/TT/trinidad-and-tobago-rop-2016/
|
2020/08/22
|
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Tunisia
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a. Yes
|
The President of the Republic may, in exceptional circumstances, within the deadlines for return of a draft law, submit for a referendum draft laws related to the ratification of treaties, to freedoms and human rights, or personal status, which were adopted by the Assembly of the Representatives of the People.
The Constitution shall be amended upon the approval of two-thirds of the members of the Assembly of the Representatives of the People. After an amendment by two-thirds of the members of the Assembly has been approved, the President may submit the amendment to referendum in which case it will be adopted if it receives an absolute majority of votes cast.
Source:
The Constitution of 26 January 2014, art. 82, 144: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/TN/tunisia-constitution-of-26-january-2014/view (2014);
Organic Law n° 2014-16 of 26 May 2014 on Elections and Referenda: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/africa/TN/tunisia-organic-law-on-elections-and-referenda/view (2014).
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2019/08/05
|
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Turkey
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Turkey, art. 175: https://global.tbmm.gov.tr/docs/constitution_en.pdf
|
2016/01/21
|
|
Turkmenistan
|
a. Yes
|
National and local referendums may be organized to address the most important issues of state and public life.
Source:
Constitution of Turkmenistan (2008), art. 63 (5), 94 (1): http://www.legislationline.org/documents/section/constitutions/country/51 (2013)
Law on Referendum of Turkmenistan (1993), art. 4 & 5
|
2013/03/06
|
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Turks and Caicos Islands
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: “The Constitution of the Turks and Caicos Islands”: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/TC/turks-and-caicos-constitution-2014/ ;
Final Report of the Electoral Observation Mission conducted by the British Islands and Mediterranean Region (BIMR) of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA UK) between 8th and 18th December 2016: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/TC/turks-and-caicos-cpa-uk-bimr-eom-final-report-2016/
|
2025/09/30
|
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Tuvalu
|
b. No
|
There are no provisions for referenda in the Constitution.
Source:
Constitution.
|
2012/06/20
|
|
Uganda
|
a. Yes
|
The people of Uganda shall have a right to choose a system of governance or change the political system through free and fair elections or referenda.
Source:
Constitution of the Republic of Uganda, art. 69, 74: http://www.ec.or.ug/docs/Constitution_1995.pdf (2025)
|
2025/12/05
|
|
Ukraine
|
a. Yes
|
An All-Ukrainian referendum shall be called by the Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine or by the President of Ukraine.
Source:
Constitution, art. 72
https://zakon.rada.gov.ua/laws/show/en/254%D0%BA/96-%D0%B2%D1%80
|
2019/03/12
|
|
United Arab Emirates
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: hhttps://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/United_Arab_Emirates_2009?lang=en
|
2019/09/25
|
|
United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Political Parties elections and referendums Act 2000, Part VII. The Conduct Regulations
https://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/2000/41/part/VII
Direct Democracy: The International IDEA Handbook (2008) http://www.idea.int/sites/default/files/publications/direct-democracy-the-international-idea-handbook.pdf
|
2025/06/30
|
|
United States of America
|
b. No
|
The U.S. Constitution and subsequent national-level legislation do not allow for national referendums.
Source:
U.S. Constitution:
http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/US/united-states-of-america-constitution-1992/view
|
2024/10/15
|
|
Uruguay
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution: Constitución de la República de Uruguay, art. 79, 304, 305, 331, https://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/UY/uruguay-constitucion-de-la-republica-2004-vigente/view (2004).
|
2024/12/19
|
|
Uzbekistan
|
a. Yes
|
Article 9: Major matters of public and state life shall be submitted for a nation-wide discussion and put to a direct vote of the people (a referendum).
Article 154: The Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan shall be amended by constitutional law adopted by a majority, not less than two thirds of the total number accordingly of deputies of the Legislative Chamber and members of the Senate of the Oliy Majlis of the Republic of Uzbekistan, or by referendum of the Republic of Uzbekistan.
Source:
The Constitution of the Republic of Uzbekistan, Articles 9, 154: https://constitution.uz/en/clause/index
|
2024/08/26
|
|
Vanuatu
|
b. No
|
No provisions for optional referenda in the Constitution.
Source:
Constitution: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/pacific/VU/vanuatu-constitution-of-the-republic-of-vanuatu/at_download/file
|
2016/01/27
|
|
Venezuela
|
a. Yes
|
Source:
Constitution: “Constitución de la República Bolivariana de Venezuela”, arts. 16 (2), 71, 72, 73, 197: http://aceproject.org/ero-en/regions/americas/VE/venezuela-constitucion-reforma-2009/
|
2020/11/15
|
|
Viet Nam
|
a. Yes
|
The Standing Committee of the National Assembly shall organise a referendum following decision by the National Assembly.
Source:
Constitution of 1992 as amended, art. 53, 84 (14), 91 (12): http://www.moj.gov.vn/vbpq/en/Lists/Vn%20bn%20php%20lut/View_Detail.aspx?ItemID=10450 (2016)
|
2021/03/24
|
|
Virgin Islands, British
|
c. No information available
|
|
2019/03/05
|
|
Virgin Islands, U.S.
|
c. No information available
|
|
2009/08/14
|
|
Western Sahara
|
c. No information available
|
|
2009/08/14
|
|
Yemen
|
b. No
|
Source:
Constitution, art. 101 (a), 158: http://www.unhcr.org/refworld/category,LEGAL,,,YEM,3fc4c1e94,0.html (2012)
|
2012/08/22
|
|
Zambia
|
b. No
|
Source:
Electoral Law: Referendum Act (Chapter 14).
http://www.parliament.gov.zm/sites/default/files/documents/acts/Referendum%20Act.pdf (2016)
|
2016/06/28
|
|
Zanzibar
|
a. Yes
|
Whenever resolution passed by the House of Representatives for holding
referendum to ascertain the view of voters on any question or issue or where the President in his opinion thinks it is necessary or desirable so to do, the President shall, by order in writing published in the Official Gazette, command the Commission to hold referendum to ascertain the view of voters on that question or issue.
Source:
Referendum Act No. 6 of 2010, art. 3 (1)
http://www.zec.go.tz/en/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/Referendum-Act-No6-2010.pdf (2016)
|
2016/03/24
|
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Zimbabwe
|
c. No information available
|
|
2018/10/31
|
