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.
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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
- Citizens – personally and through the media
- Political parties
- Public organisations
- Initiative groups
Who may not: foreign nationals, members of electoral commissions, civil servants in the performance of their duties, military personnel, religious organisations.
What is permitted
- Public events, rallies, debates
- Printed materials – leaflets, posters
- Campaigning in the media and online
- Positions 'For' and 'Against' are on completely equal terms
What is prohibited
- Vote-buying
- Threats and coercion
- Abuse of official position
- Distribution of knowingly false information
- Campaigning on the day of silence and on polling day
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
- Campaigning: 12 February – 13 March; 'For' and 'Against' on equal terms
- Day of silence: 14 March – campaigning prohibited
- Prohibited: vote-buying, coercion, abuse of official position
- The rules apply online – violations are punishable