Referendum 2026: When do we vote on the justice referendum? Dates, times, and how to do it

Here we go. After months of pub talk, parliamentary rows, and banners outside courthouses, the big day is just around the corner. If you've been wondering when we vote in the referendum, get your red marker out and circle these dates: voting takes place on Sunday 22 and Monday 23 March 2026.

I know, voting on a Monday seems a bit odd, but it happened for the last European elections too. They've stretched it out over two days to give everyone a chance to have their say, especially since this is a pretty significant constitutional reform. Polls are open from 7 am to 11 pm on Sunday, and from 7 am to 3 pm on Monday. So, if you've got an early start on Monday, you can pop in on your way to the office. Handy, right?

Anyway, let's skip the dry technicalities for now: today, I'll try to explain it as if we were chatting over a coffee, starting with a memory that came back to me reading the headlines recently.

When voting becomes history: From South Sudan to Italy

Whenever I hear about a referendum, my mind shoots back to 2011. I was glued to the TV following the 2011 South Sudanese independence referendum. Serious stuff, the kind where that slip of paper in the polling booth actually redraws the world map. Nearly 4 million South Sudanese, after decades of civil war, turned up at the polls from 9 to 15 January. The result? A landslide: 98.83% voted for independence. The birth of a nation.

Now, our referendum won't create a new country, but in its own way, it's trying to shake up a part of the Constitution that matters to everyone: the Justice system. That's why, when it comes to voting in this referendum, it's not something to take lightly.

What changes if the Yes (or No) vote wins

I won't pretend to be a professor here, but just so we're clear on what we'll be marking on that light green ballot paper: the reform introduces the separation of careers for judges and public prosecutors. In plain English: those who judge and those who prosecute will follow two distinct career paths, with two separate High Councils for the Judiciary. Members won't just be elected by the usual internal factions anymore, but some will be chosen by lot to avoid those infamous "old boy networks."

It also establishes a new High Court for disciplinary proceedings. So, a bit of a shake-up. Those backing the Yes vote talk about more impartial and rights-focused judges, as Arturo Parisi has been reminding us lately. Those saying No, however, warn of "sheriff-like prosecutors" and administrative costs that could double (an estimated extra 50 million euros a year).

A practical guide to voting: Documents and tips

Let's get down to the nitty-gritty. To vote, you need your electoral card. You know the one, that old card you usually keep in your wallet alongside supermarket receipts. If it's run out of spaces for stamps or you've lost it, don't panic: your local council's electoral office will be open with extended hours. In the days before the vote (Friday 20 and Saturday 21) from 9 am to 6 pm, and throughout the voting period while polls are open. Bring some ID, and they'll issue you a duplicate in a couple of minutes.

Pay attention to these details so you don't get caught out:

• ID: Your ID card, driving licence, or passport is fine. As long as it has a photo and is valid.
• Pencil: Leave your biro at home. At the polling station, they'll give you a special copy pencil, the one that leaves an indelible mark.
• Assisted voting: If you have mobility or sight problems, you can be accompanied by another voter. No one can accompany more than one person with a disability.

Italians abroad? Here's what to do

For our compatriots outside the country, it's a different story. Those registered with the AIRE (Register of Italians Residing Abroad) will receive a voting pack directly at home, containing the ballot paper and a pre-paid envelope. They must send it back by 4 pm on 19 March (local time) to the relevant consular office.

Those temporarily abroad for work, study, or medical reasons (for at least three months) had to apply by last 18 February. If you did, keep an eye on your mailbox: the pack will be delivered straight there.

No excuses: Turnout threshold doesn't apply

I know a lot of people think: "If we don't bother, it won't pass anyway." But no: for constitutional referendums, there's no minimum turnout requirement. The side with the most votes wins, the Yes or the No, regardless of how many people turn out. In other words: if you stay at home, others decide for you. And since we're talking about changing the Constitution, it's probably worth making a trip to the polling station, even just to put your cross where you want it.

So, between a card game and a Sunday outing, carve out half an hour. The future of Italian justice is also in your hands. And at the pub the next day, you'll be the only one who can genuinely say, "I was part of it."