local referendum
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local referendum
A procedure of direct democracy at the municipal level in which eligible voters of a municipality or city vote directly on an important factual issue. The result is generally binding for politicians and the administration.
Durch einen Bürgerentscheid wurde der Bau des neuen Einkaufszentrums verhindert.
The construction of the new shopping center was prevented by a local referendum.
The word is made up of 'Bürger' (citizen) and 'Entscheid' (decision). The 's' in between is a linking element that connects the two parts. It literally means a decision by the citizens.
Der Bürgerentscheid zur neuen Bibliothek war erfolgreich.
The local referendum on the new library was successful.
When you want to name the topic of the Bürgerentscheid (local referendum), you use the preposition 'über' followed by the accusative.
Es gab einen Bürgerentscheid über den Bau der neuen Umgehungsstraße.
There was a local referendum on the construction of the new bypass road.
Common verbs in this context are 'einen Bürgerentscheid initiieren' (to initiate a local referendum) or 'durchführen' (to carry out/hold). The result can 'beschließen' (decide/approve) or 'verhindern' (prevent) something.
Eine Bürgerinitiative will einen Bürgerentscheid zum Erhalt des Parks durchführen.
A citizens' initiative wants to hold a local referendum to preserve the park.
choice / election
'die Wahl' and 'der Bürgerentscheid' can both have to do with citizens voting. 'die Wahl' is more general and often means that people or parties are elected. 'der Bürgerentscheid' is more specific: in a town or municipality, citizens vote directly on an important issue. The words can be confused because both are democratic procedures. When it is about a local issue such as a swimming pool, a road, or a construction project, 'Bürgerentscheid' is more precise.
Am Sonntag gibt es einen Bürgerentscheid über den neuen Radweg in der Stadt.
On Sunday there will be a local referendum about the new bike path in the city.
Adam verfolgt die Wahl am Wochenende, weil er sich für Politik interessiert.
Adam is following the election at the weekend because he is interested in politics.