A referendum is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal and can result in the adoption of a new law or policy. It typically addresses significant issues such as constitutional amendments, changes in governance, or social policies. Referenda allow citizens to express their opinions directly and can be used at local, state, or national levels. Countries often utilize referenda to gauge public support or opposition on contentious issues, enhancing democratic participation in decision-making processes.