What is a referendum? Reasons for holding a referendum

Referendum, plebiscite or referendum; It is a vote held to determine the will of the people on some important issues such as constitutional amendments and the adoption of laws. In a referendum, the will of the people is directly reflected in the administration and is a good example of direct democracy. In a representative democracy, people elected by the people try to reflect the will of the people. THE TERM REFERENDUM The word referendum is usually mentioned together with the word plebiscite. Plebs is the name given to the large class of people other than the privileged patricians in Ancient Rome. It comes from the Latin word plebiscitum, meaning the decision made by the plebeian assemblies. Referendum, on the other hand, comes from the Latin root "referre" (to bring back). IN WHAT CASES IS A REFERENDUM HELD? A referendum is a vote held for the people to decide on an important issue by direct vote. Its main purpose is to present to the people the approval of wide-ranging, critical decisions affecting the future of the country, such as constitutional amendments. Reasons for a Referendum: Constitutional Amendments This is the most common reason. When fundamental changes to the existing constitution are required, the public must approve them. Legitimation of Political Decisions Governments or parliaments may seek public opinion to increase the legitimacy of controversial or far-reaching decisions. National Sovereignty and Identity Issues For example, decisions on whether a country should unite or secede from another state. International Treaties Acceptance or rejection of major international agreements (for example, membership of the European Union). Decisions Concerning Local Government Sometimes referendums can also be held at the local level: for example, when a province is divided into two, when a municipality is annexed to another province.