Editorial

Introduction to Referendum Authorization Procedures in Europe

“…77 One dimension of the classification is the mandatory or facultative (optional) nature of the referendums: whether the referendum is a compulsory element of the decision-making process on pre-determined issues or the referendum can be freely initiated by state actors or citizens. 78 Another dimension is based on the legal effect of the vote: whether the referendum results bind the representative organs or are merely consultative. 79 Yet another categorization can be made according to the types of questions that can be submitted to a referendum: is it possible to initiate a popular vote on constitutional revisions, or is it limited to legislative changes?…”

“…78 Another dimension is based on the legal effect of the vote: whether the referendum results bind the representative organs or are merely consultative. 79 Yet another categorization can be made according to the types of questions that can be submitted to a referendum: is it possible to initiate a popular vote on constitutional revisions, or is it limited to legislative changes? 80 Is it permissible to call referendums on individual administrative acts or only on normative provisions?…”