Referendum

In Swiss constitutional practice, the referendum is a core mechanism of direct democracy and legislative control. Some decisions must be put to a vote automatically, while others are voted on only if the required number of citizens or cantons request it within the applicable deadline. At federal level, referendums commonly concern federal acts, important treaties, and constitutional changes, depending on the category. Cantonal and municipal systems also use referendums under their own rules. The instrument gives voters a direct veto or approval role in lawmaking.