Referendum in Central and Eastern Europe

Abstract

The institution of nationwide referendum played a significant role in the Central and Eastern European states during the democratic transformation process. It was perceived as a symbol of empowering people and democratizing the political system. It was also commonly used to legitimize the accession to the European Union at the beginning of the twenty-first century. From the legal point of view, the legal orders of Central and Eastern European states provide for a large variety of forms of this institution distinguished on the basis of subjective scope, entities granted the right to initiate and order a referendum, mandatory nature, or requirements of its binding effect. The contribution presents the institution of referendum as an element of decision-making process, different types of referenda regulated by law, as well as constitutional practice in this respect.