title: 1923 Estonian religious education referendum
text: # 1923 Estonian religious education referendum
  
  A referendum on restoring voluntary religious education to state schools was held in Estonia between 17 and 19 February 1923. It was approved by 71.9% of voters with a turnout of 66.2%.
  
  ## Background
  
  On 5 January 1921 the Christian Democratic Party (KDP) joined Konstantin Päts' Farmers' Assemblies-led the government, and was given the Education ministry portfolio. The following year the KDP caused a split in the government by introducing a bill to provide religious education in state schools, funded by the state. Although the proposal was rejected by the Riigikogu, the party forced a referendum on the issue in early 1923.
  
  ## Results
  
  | Choice | Votes | % |
  | - | - | - |
  | For | 324,933 | 71.9 |
  | Against | 127,119 | 28.1 |
  | Invalid/blank votes | 2,116 | – |
  | Total | 454,168 | 100 |
  | Registered voters/turnout | 685,730 | 66.2 |
  | Source: Nohlen & Stöver |||
  
  ## Aftermath
  
  As the referendum was a rejection of government policy, this was considered to be a vote of no confidence on the rest of the government. The Riigikogu was subsequently dissolved and fresh elections called.
  
  