Icelandic constitutional referendum, 1944

Iceland

This article is part of the series:
Politics and government of
Iceland



Other countries · Atlas
Politics portal

A referendum was held in Iceland between 20 and 23 May 1944.[1] Voters were asked whether the Union with Denmark should be abolished and whether to adopt a new republican constitution. Both measures were approved with more than 98% in favour. Voter turnout was 98.4%.[2]

Contents

Results

Abolishing the Act of Union

Choice Votes %
For 71,122 99.5
Against 377 0.5
Invalid/blank votes 1,559
Total 73,058 100
Registered voters/turnout 74,272 98.4
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

New republican constitution

Choice Votes %
For 69,435 98.5
Against 1,051 1.5
Invalid/blank votes 2,572
Total 73,058 100
Registered voters/turnout 74,272 98.4
Source: Nohlen & Stöver

Aftermath

The Republic of Iceland came into being on 17 June 1944. Since Denmark was still occupied by Nazi Germany, many Danes felt offended that the step should have been taken at this time. Despite this the Danish king, Christian X, sent a message of congratulations to the Icelandic people.

See also

References

  1. ^ Nohlen, D & Stöver, P (2010) Elections in Europe: A data handbook, p961 ISBN 9873832956097
  2. ^ Nohlen & Stöver, p967