What Is a Referendum
A referendum is a nationwide vote with direct legal force. Every citizen aged 18 and over votes personally and in secret. Three conditions must be met: turnout above 50%, a majority of 'Yes' votes, and 'Yes' in at least 2/3 of regions. The result is binding – it can only be reversed by another referendum.
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What a referendum is
The most direct form of democracy. Not a deputy deciding on your behalf – you decide yourself.
How it works:
- The state puts a question to a vote
- Every citizen aged 18 and over goes to a polling station
- They vote 'Yes' or 'No' – in secret, in person
- The result carries direct legal force
Three conditions for recognition
| Condition | Requirement | What happens if not met |
|---|---|---|
| Turnout | More than 50% of voters | The referendum is deemed not to have taken place |
| Majority | More than 50% of those who voted – 'Yes' | The decision is not adopted |
| Regional threshold | 'Yes' in ≥2/3 of regions, cities of republican significance, and the capital | The decision is not adopted |
All three conditions must be met simultaneously. If even one is not satisfied – the decision is not adopted.
Legal force
- The result is binding across the entire territory of Kazakhstan
- It can only be reversed by another referendum
- Neither the President, nor parliament, nor a court can review the result
Kazakhstan's referendums
| Year | Question | 'Yes' | Turnout |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Adoption of the Constitution | 89% | 90% |
| 2022 | 56 amendments to the Constitution | 77% | 68% |
| 2026 | New Constitution | 15 March – voting is happening now | – |
Key facts
- A referendum is a nationwide vote with direct legal force
- Three conditions: turnout >50%, majority 'Yes', 'Yes' in ≥2/3 of regions
- The result is binding; it can only be reversed by another referendum
- Kazakhstan's history: 1995 (89% 'Yes'), 2022 (77% 'Yes', 68% turnout), 2026 – 15 March