The substantive validity of texts submitted to a referendum

Texts submitted to a referendum must comply with all superior law (principle of the hierarchy of norms).

They must not be contrary to international law, to the Council of Europe’s statutory principles (democracy, human rights and the rule of law) or to Council of Europe membership conditions. States may add further limitations.

Texts that contradict the requirements mentioned under III.2 and III.3 may not be put to the popular vote.