What Is Happening and What Comes Next

Voting took place on 15 March 2026. 87.15% voted in favour at 73.12% turnout. The Constitution was adopted and enters into force on 1 July 2026. Elections to the Kurultai (168 seats) follow within 2 months.

Referendum 1 min read 📄
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First stage: counting

After voting closes:

  • ballots are counted at polling stations
  • protocols are prepared
  • results are transmitted through the electoral system

At this stage, procedural accuracy and transparency are especially important.

Second stage: official results

At the central level, the data from all polling stations are consolidated and an official result is announced. At that point:

  • turnout is assessed
  • the voting outcome is determined
  • the legal validity of the referendum result is established

If the proposal is approved

If the constitutional proposal receives the required support and the referendum satisfies the legal conditions, then:

  • the new constitutional text is formally confirmed
  • official promulgation follows
  • transitional and technical measures begin
  • ordinary legislation may need to be aligned with the new Constitution

If support is insufficient

If the proposal does not receive enough support, or if the legal requirements are not met, the text does not automatically enter into force. Further political or legal discussion may then be required.

Timeline after 15 March

Why the post-vote stage matters

Many people think a referendum is only a one-day event. In reality, the implementation phase after the vote is just as important. Adopting a text and integrating it into the legal order are two different tasks.

Main idea

The key question after a referendum is not only who won, but how the approved decision is translated into the legal system.

Key facts

  • After voting, ballots are counted and official results are announced
  • Turnout and support are both assessed
  • If approved, the legal system must be aligned with the new constitutional text
  • The implementation stage after the vote is crucial
Related questions

What Questions Can Be Put to a Referendum

A referendum is intended for issues of fundamental public and constitutional importance, not for routine administrative decisions. It is the mechanism by which citizens directly decide questions affecting the foundations of the state, the constitutional order, or other matters of nationwide significance.

Minimum Turnout Requirement and Current Figures

Yes, a referendum requires participation above 50% to have full legal force. Additionally, 'Yes' must prevail in at least 2/3 of regions. According to the CEC, as of 18:00, turnout has reached 70.98% (8,845,280 citizens received ballots) – the 50% threshold has been exceeded. A repeat referendum cannot be held for at least one year.

What Campaigning Rules Apply Before the Referendum

Campaigning is permitted from 12 February to 13 March – both 'For' and 'Against' on equal terms. 14 March is a day of silence: no campaigning. 15 March is polling day. Prohibited: vote-buying, coercion, abuse of official position. These rules apply online as well.

Who Monitors the Integrity of the Vote

At every polling station – observers from parties, NGOs, media, and international missions (OSCE/ODIHR, SCO, CIS). Observers from more than 30 countries have been invited. Each observer receives a copy of the count protocol. Discrepancies are grounds for verification and a court challenge.