A plebiscite is a direct vote in which the electorate decides on a specific proposal or question, often related to constitutional changes or major policy decisions. It functions as a form of direct democracy and can serve to gauge public opinion on contentious issues. In democratic governance, plebiscites are used to legitimize decisions, such as independence referendums or constitutional amendments, thereby allowing citizens to have a direct say in their governance. While they can enhance democratic legitimacy, plebiscites also raise concerns about majoritarianism and the potential marginalization of minority voices.