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]
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