2004 Hungarian dual citizenship referendum

On December 5, 2004, a national referendum was held in Hungary on two questions. The referendum was originally called only in connection with the privatization of hospitals, at the initiative of the Workers’ Party. After the successful completion of the signature collection campaign of the World Federation of Hungarians (MVSZ), another question was added, calling for the adoption of a law enabling preferential naturalization for those who identified themselves as Hungarian by nationality but were not living in Hungary and were not Hungarian citizens.

Ferenc Mádl set December 5, 2004, as the date for the binding national referendum on the two questions, the results of which would have been mandatory for the National Assembly. The vote sparked lively public debate, with numerous social and professional organizations joining the campaign. However, in both cases the referendum was invalid due to low turnout. While the failed vote had no consequences for the healthcare sector, it placed a long-term strain on the relationship between Hungarian politics and Hungarians living beyond the country’s borders.