Bologna Prepares for March 2026 Constitutional Referendum: A Deep Dive
Bologna is gearing up for a crucial constitutional referendum scheduled for March 22nd and 23rd, 2026, focused on the separation of careers within the judiciary. The Comune di Bologna is implementing measures to facilitate voting and ensure smooth operations at polling stations.
What’s at Stake: The Judiciary Reform
The referendum centers on a proposed constitutional reform concerning the separation of roles within the Italian magistracy. Currently, judges and public prosecutors share a single career path. The proposed change would create distinct career trajectories, with separate competitions, advancement paths, and self-governing bodies (CSM – Council of the Judiciary). If the “Yes” vote prevails, transitions between these roles would be prohibited. The reform establishes a new High Disciplinary Court to oversee magistrate misconduct, removing this responsibility from the CSM.
Making Voting Accessible: Extended Hours and Mobile Services
Polling stations will be open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM on March 22nd and from 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM on March 23rd. Voters must present a valid form of identification and their electoral card (tessera elettorale) to cast their ballot. To address potential issues with lost or expired cards, the Comune is offering extended hours at local municipal offices.
Expanded Office Hours for Electoral Services
Starting February 14th, 2026, select municipal offices will have Saturday morning hours (8:00 AM to 1:00 PM) dedicated to issuing and replacing electoral cards and ID cards. Specific locations include Borgo Panigale-Reno, Porto-Saragozza, San Donato-San Vitale, and Savena. The Santo Stefano office will also offer extended hours on February 21st and 28th. Additional services are available on Tuesdays and Thursdays (1:00 PM to 6:00 PM) and Saturdays (8:00 AM to 1:00 PM) at Piazza Liber Paradisus 9, and Thursdays (2:30 PM to 5:30 PM) and Saturdays (8:00 AM to 1:00 PM) at Piazza Maggiore. Access to these services is free and does not require an appointment, but is limited to voting-related needs.
Call for Poll Workers: Expanding the Pool of Volunteers
The Comune di Bologna is actively recruiting volunteers to serve as polling station officials (presidents and scrutineers). While positions are typically filled from established registers, the referendum allows individuals not on those lists to apply. This is particularly important due to the need for additional staff to manage polling stations for citizens voting from abroad (segni Aire).
Who Can Apply?
The call for volunteers extends beyond Bologna residents to include individuals residing in other municipalities within the Bologna metropolitan area. Online application forms are available on the Comune’s website.
Compensation for Poll Workers
Compensation for scrutineers in Bologna for the March 22nd and 23rd, 2026 referendum has been updated to €119.60. This represents a 15% increase due to extended voting hours and is a net amount, not subject to taxation.
Recent Developments & Political Landscape
Events are being held to discuss the referendum. On February 6th, 2026, a debate titled “Referendum on Justice – Two Visions on the Separation of Careers” took place in Bologna, featuring Professor Tommaso Guerini and Attorney Ernesto Carbone. Further events are scheduled throughout February and March, including interviews, meetings with students, and public debates. A “No” campaign is also underway, spearheaded by a committee including organizations like CGIL, ANPI, and Acli.
FAQ
- What is the purpose of the referendum? The referendum asks citizens to decide whether to approve a constitutional reform separating the careers of judges and public prosecutors.
- When and where can I vote? Voting takes place on March 22nd (7:00 AM – 11:00 PM) and March 23rd (7:00 AM – 3:00 PM) at designated polling stations.
- What do I need to bring to vote? A valid form of identification and your electoral card (tessera elettorale).
- How can I become a poll worker? You can apply online through the Comune di Bologna’s website.
- Is there a quorum required for the referendum to be valid? No, this is a constitutional referendum and does not require a minimum voter turnout.
Pro Tip: Check the Comune di Bologna website for the exact location of your polling station and to confirm office hours for electoral card services.
Did you recognize? The extended voting hours for this referendum are a recent change, aimed at increasing voter participation.
Stay informed about the referendum and exercise your right to vote! Explore the resources available on the Comune di Bologna website for more details.
