In Sunday's referenda, the electorate has voted to reject all three, with that concerning the right of non-nationals to vote in national elections an unexpected landslide.

In what can be described as a slight against "foreigners" but also a rejection of the current coalition government, the 78% vote against the question concerning the right of foreigners to vote in national elections was significantly higher than expected - the result was expected to be close. Social media postings on the topic have lamented the outcome, calling it a "sad day for Luxembourg".

RESULTS

1. to reduce the voting age from 18 to 16: Yes 19.13%, No 80.87%

2. to allow non-nationals to vote in national elections: Yes 21.98%, No 78.02%

3. to impose a maximum of 10 years for members of government: Yes 30.07%, No 69.93%

The exact wording of #2 read "Do you agree with the idea that non-Luxembourg residents have the right to optionally register as voters to participate in elections as voters for the Chambre des Députés, under the double particular conditions of having resided for at least ten years in Luxembourg and to have previously participated in local or European elections in Luxembourg?"

The results mean that only 1 out of 5 voters apprroved the idea of extending the rigth to vote in national elections to foreigners. Out of a total electorate of 246,974, 233,672 votes were cast of which 211,013 were deemed valid.

A government statement read "The government acknowledges the results and confirms that, pursuant to its earlier statements, it will respect the choices expressed. The government estimates that the very organisation of the national referendum is an important step in the debate and the Luxembourg political culture. Active citizen participation in debates encourages us to continue our democratic and inclusive approach. The government will continue efforts to promote the political participation of young people and the integration of non-Luxembourg residents representing approximately 45% of the population."

The government also confirmed that it will proceed to hold a referendum in 2017 concerning the proposed new constitution.