The conservative state is currently one of the few EU members that do not allow same-sex marriage or civil partnerships. However, supporters of a proposal, such as the Orthodox Church and almost all parliamentary parties, want to amend the constitution to define marriage exclusively as between a man and a woman. This is to prevent same-sex couples from being able to marry in the future. Many human rights groups are urging people to boycott the vote, warning that approving the change could lead to further erosion of minority rights and a move towards populism and authoritarianism. A recent poll indicated a turnout of 34 percent, with 90 percent in favor of the change. The Coalition for the Family gathered 3 million signatures in support of the amendment. The lower house of parliament approved the referendum last year, followed by the senate in September, which was the final step needed. Some campaign posters from the Coalition encouraged people to vote "Yes" to protect family values and prevent gay couples from taking or adopting their children. Another advertisement suggested that a "No" vote would allow a man to marry a tree. The leader of the ruling Social Democrat Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, expressed concerns about the possibility of legalizing marriage between a man and an animal, citing examples from other countries. In the days leading up to the vote, the government loosened anti-fraud measures and restricted opportunities to challenge the outcome, while the broadcasting regulator removed the deadline for campaigning. The independent think tank Expert Forum (EFOR) stated that there are no effective methods to verify fraud in the referendum, leading to a lack of trust in the fairness of the process. Some opposition figures believe the ruling party is using the vote to distract from its leader's legal issues and conflicts with the European Commission. Former Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos suggested that the government is trying to foster anti-European sentiment in Romania. Meanwhile, the government denies these claims and the Orthodox Church has endorsed a "Yes" vote as Christian, democratic, and patriotic. Romania decriminalized homosexuality in 2001, lagging behind neighboring countries, and LGBT discrimination remains prevalent. Photograph title: Romania 1+2 Caption: Romanian religious leaders participate in a demonstration advocating for a "Yes" vote on the imminent referendum, which suggests amendments to the constitution to prohibit the recognition of same-sex marriages in the future, in Draganesti, Romania, on October 4, 2018. REUTERS.