1923 Estonian religious education referendum
A referendum on restoring voluntary religious education to state schools was held in Estonia between 17 and 19 February 1923.[1] It was approved by 71.9% of voters with a turnout of 66.2%.[2]
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Background
On 5 January 1921 the Christian Democratic Party (KDP) joined Konstantin Päts' Farmers' Assemblies-led the government, and was given the Education ministry portfolio. The following year the KDP caused a split in the government by introducing a bill to provide religious education in state schools, funded by the state. Although the proposal was rejected by the Riigikogu, the party forced a referendum on the issue in early 1923.[3]
Results
| Choice | Votes | % |
|---|---|---|
| For | 324,933 | 71.9 |
| Against | 127,119 | 28.1 |
| Invalid/blank votes | 2,116 | – |
| Total | 454,168 | 100 |
| Registered voters/turnout | 685,730 | 66.2 |
| Source: Nohlen & Stöver | ||
Aftermath
As the referendum was a rejection of government policy, this was considered to be a vote of no confidence on the rest of the government. The Riigikogu was subsequently dissolved and fresh elections called.[3]
References
- Dieter Nohlen & Philip Stöver (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p574 ISBN 978-3-8329-5609-7
- Nohlen & Stöver, p579
- Vincent E McHale (1983) Political parties of Europe, Greenwood Press, p374 ISBN 0-313-23804-9