Referendum

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.

Campaigning period

Period What is allowed
12 February – 13 March Campaigning permitted: 'For', 'Against', calls to vote
14 March (day of silence) Campaigning prohibited – a day for quiet reflection
15 March (polling day) Campaigning prohibited

Who may campaign

Who may not: foreign nationals, members of electoral commissions, civil servants in the performance of their duties, military personnel, religious organisations.

What is permitted

What is prohibited

A violation is an administrative offence carrying specific penalties.

The day of silence – why it exists

14 March is the day when you make your decision without pressure. No campaigning: not in the media, not on social networks, not on the street. This is standard international practice.

Key facts