Referendums on the European Union

Several EU candidate states have held a referendum on joining the EU. EU Treaty amendments, EU enlargement, economic and monetary union, new treaties or new constitutional arrangements have also attracted referendums in some Member States. These may be binding, advisory or consultative.

This Note charts the referendums on EU matters held in candidate and Member States since 1972, with brief details on turnout and results. It also outlines the positions of France and Austria with regard to holding a referendum on EU enlargement.

Please note: this note has been up-dated and replaced by Commons Briefing Paper 7570, Referendums on the European Union.