Polls opened in Italy for a two-day referendum on citizenship and labor law reforms, triggered by an NGO-led campaign requiring 500,000 signatures.

Over 51 million Italians can vote, but results are only binding if turnout exceeds 50%.

The key question asks whether to reduce the residency requirement for citizenship from 10 to 5 years, easing access for children born to non-EU parents.

Supporters say this helps integration and aligns Italy with other European countries, benefiting 2.5 million people.

Voters will also decide on worker protections and contract reforms.

The center-left backs the referendum, while Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s right-wing government opposes it, encouraging supporters to abstain to block the 50% turnout threshold, the DW has reported.

Turnout is expected to be about 35%, below what’s needed for the reforms to pass.

Written by B.C. Begley