What is the difference between plebiscite and referendum?

Definitions

plebiscite

- A direct vote by the people of a region or country on a specific issue.

- A formal process of seeking public opinion on a particular matter.

- A method of determining the will of the people on a particular issue.

referendum

- A direct vote by the people on a particular law or policy.

- A formal process of seeking public opinion on a specific issue.

- A method of determining the will of the people on a particular issue.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both are methods of direct democracy.
• 2. Both involve a direct vote by the people.
• 3. Both are used to determine the will of the people on a particular issue.
• 4. Both are formal processes of seeking public opinion.

What is the difference?

• 1. Scope: Plebiscite is usually used to refer to a vote on a broader issue, such as independence or sovereignty, while referendum is used for a specific law or policy.
• 2. Authority: Plebiscite is often initiated by the government or ruling authority, while referendum can be initiated by the government or by citizens through a petition.
• 3. Purpose: Plebiscite is often used to legitimize a decision already made by the government, while referendum is used to make a decision on a specific issue.
• 4. Timing: Plebiscite is often used to gauge public opinion before making a decision, while referendum is used after a decision has been made.
• 5. Usage: Plebiscite is more commonly used in international contexts, while referendum is more commonly used in national contexts.

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Remember this!

Plebiscite and referendum are both methods of direct democracy that involve a direct vote by the people to determine the will of the people on a particular issue. However, the difference between plebiscite and referendum is their scope, authority, purpose, timing, and usage. A plebiscite is usually used to refer to a vote on a broader issue, initiated by the government, and often used to legitimize a decision already made. Whereas, a referendum is used for a specific law or policy, can be initiated by the government or citizens, and used to make a decision on a specific issue.