Separation Referendums

Starting in 1979, Venice had held four referendums that were used to gauge public opinion on a split between the mainland (Terraferma) and lagoon region (Estuario) into two independent cities. None of these referendums have resulted in an official vote, but support for an official vote has increased within the past 35 years.

Referendum Overview

Because of the economic and demographic differences between Terraferma and Estuario, many citizens have expressed interest in the two regions splitting. This led to referendums held by the government. A referendum is not an official, binding vote. For example, even if a separation referendum were to receive support from 100% of those who voted, the city would not be immediately split into two. Referendums are only held to gauge public opinion in order to see if an official vote should be called for.

Referendum History

Since 1979, Venice has had four referendums (1979, 1989, 1994, 2016/2017). None of the referendums led to an official government vote and none of them came along with an official boundary that would be used if there were to be an official vote. However, support for a separation increased between 1979 and 1994 despite a great deal of opposition from the government. There has not yet been a vote on the 2016/2017 referendum.