A referendum is a direct vote in which an entire electorate is invited to vote on a particular proposal, often related to changes in laws or policies. This process allows citizens to express their opinions on significant issues, such as constitutional amendments or independence from a country. The outcome of a referendum can lead to substantial changes in governance or public policy. In many democratic countries, referendums serve as a tool for public engagement and decision-making. They can be initiated by the government or through petitions by the electorate. Examples of referendums include the Brexit vote in the United Kingdom and various state-level votes in the United States.