In a significant political event in Ireland, Taoiseach Leo Varadkar encountered a major setback as voters rejected proposed constitutional amendments in two referendums aimed at redefining the concept of family and modernizing references to care. These referendums, which took place in March 2024, saw a substantial majority of the electorate voting against the changes, with 67% opposing the family referendum and an overwhelming 74% against the care referendum.

The defeated family amendments sought to remove the constitution’s outdated “woman in the home” clause and expand the definition of family, while the care referendum aimed to update the language concerning care responsibilities within the constitution. This defeat is particularly poignant as it comes on the heels of Ireland’s previous progressive milestones, such as the legalization of same-sex marriage and abortion, raising questions about the country’s contemporary social attitudes.

Critiques of Varadkar and his administration’s approach to the campaign have been widespread, with opponents labeling the efforts as poorly executed and rushed in an attempt to coincide with International Women’s Day, further leading to its dismissal as “gimmicky”. The decision to conduct these referendums in March rather than a later date, such as June, alongside an ineffective communication strategy, contributed to a disconnect between the government’s intentions and the electorate’s understanding and approval.

This outcome not only represents a considerable political blow for Varadkar, marking the defeat of the government’s proposals in virtually every region of the country except one, but also signals a potential fracture within the progressive alliance and a notable disconnect between the administration and public sentiment. The Brexiteer MP Brendan Clarke-Smith notably highlighted Varadkar’s comprehensive defeat, and Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald criticized the government’s inadequate engagement with the public on these critical issues.

The implications of the referendums extend beyond the immediate political repercussions for Varadkar and his party. There has been a call from various quarters, including advocacy groups and political leaders, for a more inclusive and well-considered approach to constitutional amendments, especially those bearing significant impact on society’s vulnerable groups, such as carers, people with disabilities, and the elderly. Despite the setbacks, Varadkar has noted that efforts towards achieving gender equality and improving conditions for carers in Ireland will persist.

The results have sparked discussions on Ireland’s progressivism and its reputation on the global stage, underlining the complexities and challenges within Irish society regarding social and care-related issues. Moving forward, there is an evident need for a more thoughtful engagement with and amongst all stakeholders to ensure that future efforts towards constitutional modernization and social reform resonate more effectively with the electorate, fostering a fairer and more inclusive society.