Historical Events tagged with "referendum"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Australians Reject Indigenous Voice to Parliament

October 14th, 2023 1 years ago

Australia's referendum on the Indigenous Voice to Parliament failed, with a significant majority voting against the constitutional amendment. The proposal aimed to provide Indigenous Australians with a formal advisory body to Parliament, enhancing their representation in governmental decisions. The results reflect a complex relationship between Indigenous issues and mainstream Australian politics. Many advocates believed that the change would be historic, yet public sentiment on this issue remains divided.

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Politics & Government

Voting Begins in Sham Referendums in Ukraine

September 23rd, 2022 2 years ago

Voting commenced in Russian-controlled regions of Ukraine, including Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia, as part of referendums aimed at annexing these territories to Russia. The five-day voting process was widely criticized by the international community as illegitimate and coercive, with observers claiming the votes were not conducted under fair conditions. Amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russia sought to solidify its claim over these regions through the controversial plebiscites, prompting widespread outcry and condemnation from Ukraine and its allies.

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Politics & Government

Kazakhstan Holds Constitutional Referendum After Unrest

June 5th, 2022 2 years ago

Kazakhstan held a constitutional referendum to responses to public dissatisfaction following violent protests against rising fuel prices and government policies. This referendum was seen as a critical step for President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's administration to address the unrest that erupted in January. The vote aimed to amend the constitution and promises reform that would decentralize power and expand individual rights, reflecting the demands of the populace for greater accountability and governance.

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Politics & Government

UK Officially Exits the European Union

January 31st, 2020 5 years ago

After 47 years of membership, the United Kingdom officially ceased its membership in the European Union. The withdrawal process was formalized through Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, kicking off a significant transition period for both the UK and the EU. The culmination of years of negotiation and public debate, the event marked a new chapter in the UK's relationship with Europe and the wider world. Brexit, as it was commonly known, set the stage for changes in trade, immigration, and political dynamics across the continent.

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Politics & Government

Bougainville Votes for Independence

December 11th, 2019 5 years ago

The results of the Bougainville independence referendum reveal an overwhelming majority in favor of independence, with over 98% of voters supporting secession from Papua New Guinea. The referendum marks a significant step in the long-standing aspiration of the Bougainvillean people for self-determination, stemming from years of civil conflict and political negotiations. The process was facilitated by a peace agreement established to end hostilities and create a pathway for self-governance.

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Politics & Government

Ireland Repeals Eighth Amendment on Abortion

May 25th, 2018 6 years ago

Irish citizens voted overwhelmingly to repeal the Eighth Amendment, which severely restricted abortion access. The referendum allowed voters to decide on whether to change the constitution, with a significant majority supporting the repeal. The movement for change was fueled by numerous cases highlighting the restrictions, including high-profile cases where women's health was at risk. The outcome marked a dramatic shift in Ireland's social policy and attitudes towards women's reproductive rights.

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Politics & Government

Catalonia's Declaration of Independence

October 27th, 2017 7 years ago

Catalonia's parliament passed a resolution declaring independence from Spain, amid rising tensions with the central government. This declaration was spearheaded by Catalan leaders seeking a sovereign state following a controversial referendum earlier in October, which saw significant support among pro-independence voters despite Madrid's refusal to recognize the vote. The declaration took place in Barcelona, where members of the Catalan assembly voted in favor.

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Politics & Government

Catalonia's Illegal Independence Referendum

October 1st, 2017 7 years ago

Catalonia conducted an independence referendum, although declared illegal by Spain's Constitutional Court. The referendum, which asked citizens if they wanted Catalonia to become an independent republic, faced significant opposition from Spanish authorities and police. Voter turnout was reported at 43%, with a majority voting in favor of independence. Amidst allegations of police violence and political repression, the referendum highlighted deep divisions within Spain regarding Catalan autonomy and identity.

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Politics & Government

Theresa May Triggers Brexit Process

March 29th, 2017 7 years ago

Prime Minister Theresa May formally invokes Article 50, initiating the United Kingdom's departure from the European Union. This pivotal moment follows a 2016 referendum decision favoring Brexit, setting into motion the complicated and unprecedented negotiations for the UK's future relationship with the EU. The invocation was delivered in a letter to the European Council President, Donald Tusk, emphasizing the government's commitment to securing the best possible terms for the UK post-Brexit.

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