Referenda Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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referenda
[rɪˈfɛr.ən.də ]
Definition
political process
Referenda are direct votes in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of new legislation or policies. These votes are often used to gauge public opinion on significant issues or to ratify decisions made by governmental bodies.
Synonyms
plebiscite, poll, vote.
Examples of usage
- The government decided to hold referenda on constitutional reforms.
- Citizens participated in the referenda to express their views on the new law.
- The state organized a series of referenda to decide on tax increases.
Translations
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Origin of 'referenda'
The word 'referendum' originates from the Latin term 'referendum,' meaning 'that which is to be referred.' It was first used in a political context in the 19th century, denoting a process by which a vote is held to determine the outcome of a significant political decision or issue. The concept of direct democracy, where citizens can vote on specific measures, has been present since ancient times, but it gained prominence in modern political systems as a way to enhance civic participation and ensure that government actions reflect the will of the people. Over time, referenda became an established method for addressing issues ranging from constitutional amendments to policy changes, reflecting the evolving nature of democratic governance.