Initiative and referendum

Citizens collect signatures to place a proposed law or constitutional change on the ballot (initiative) or to challenge a law passed by the legislature (optional referendum). Some measures, such as constitutional changes, must go to voters automatically (mandatory referendum).

Direct legislation is meant to check legislatures and let voters decide issues that parties avoid. Supporters argue it brings policy closer to majority preferences; critics point to the role of money, voter fatigue, complex wording and risks to minorities.

• Switzerland: the optional referendum dates from 1874 (50,000 signatures in 100 days) and the popular initiative for partial constitutional revision from 1891 (now 100,000 signatures in 18 months). Constitutional changes need a majority of voters and of cantons. Of 237 initiatives voted by end-2025, 26 were accepted.
• United States: South Dakota adopted statewide initiative and referendum in 1898 and Oregon in 1902; California ratified initiative, referendum and recall on 10 October 1911.

Signature campaigns can be professionalised, ballots can pass measures that conflict with other law, and voters may lack information on complex questions.

Most Swiss initiatives fail, yet they shape debate and prompt counter-proposals. Studies of whether initiatives improve policy responsiveness reach different conclusions.