The referendums were in 1987 and 2011, respectively. Asking once every 15+ years seems fine, the population changes and opinions change.

It’s much less frequent than the usual democratic election cycle, where people are also allowed to reevaluate their positions.

> Asking once every 15+ years seems fine, the population changes and opinions change.

But nobody asked, there hasn't been a third referendum.

It doesn't work that way in Italy. A popular referendum can only abolish an existing law, partially or fully. The general public cannot vote to adopt new legislation.

The government was elected by the people - if they disagree with this decision it will have consequences in the next election.

I think the public opinion and sentiment has changed quite significantly since 2011 when the last referendum was held.

The current Italian government is massively populist so they wouldn’t do this if they thought people would disagree.

I don’t see any problem with the democratic process here - sure it’s a flawed system but I believe it’s still the best we came up with so far

I am not debating the benefits of democracy, rather how there's no democracy at all if a referendum is not legally binding and a government can disregard the result.

Shouldn't people be allowed to change their minds?

A party can lose three election, and if they win the fourth, they still get into power.