The referendum, which sought to reduce the time it takes to become a naturalized citizen from 10 years to five, failed because fewer than 50% of eligible voters took part in two days of voting.

– Interests of workers – Under Italy’s constitution, a referendum can be triggered by a petition signed by at least 500,000 voters.

An Italian referendum on granting faster citizenship to immigrants has failed due to low voter turnout. Italy's right-wing government was against it and tried to boycott the democratic process.

ROME (AP) — Italy’s referendums aimed at relaxing citizenship laws and improving job protections failed on Monday because of low turnout. But organizers said that it contributed to restarting… ...

The referendum, which sought to reduce the time it takes to become a naturalized citizen from 10 years to five, failed because fewer than 50% of eligible voters took part in two days of voting.

Italian economists have said the change could also be a useful measure to address the problems resulting from Italy's aging society and low birthrate — just 12% of the population is younger than 14.