A two-part referendum was held in Switzerland on 23 May 1875.[1] A new federal law establishing and certifying civil status and marriage was narrowly approved, whilst a new federal law on suffrage was narrowly rejected.[1]
Background
This was the first optional referendum held in the country, as all previous referendums had been mandatory referendums.[2] Whilst obligatory referendums required both a majority of voters and a majority of cantons in favour, optional referendums required only a majority of the public vote.[3]
Results
Federal law on the establishment of civil status and marriage
Choice
Votes
%
For
213,199
51.0
Against
205,069
49.0
Invalid/blank votes
–
Total
418,268
100
Registered voters/turnout
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
Federal law on suffrage
Choice
Votes
%
For
202,583
49.4
Against
207,263
50.6
Invalid/blank votes
–
Total
409,846
100
Registered voters/turnout
Source: Nohlen & Stöver
References
^ abNohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p1902 ISBN 9783832956097
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