1974 Ellice Islands self-determination referendum

A referendum on separating from the Gilbert Islands was held in the Ellice Islands (then administered together as the Gilbert and Ellice Islands) between July and September 1974. A rolling ballot was used, starting in July in Tarawa in the Gilbert Islands before being taken to each resident of the Ellice Islands.

1974 Ellice Islands self-determination referendum

July–September 1974

[_] The establishment of a separate Ellice Islands Colony.

[_] To remain with the Gilberts as part of the GEIC and what the colony becomes when its status is altered.
Results
Choice
Votes  %
Separate Ellice Islands Colony 3,799 92.84%
Remain in the GEIC 293 7.16%
Valid votes 4,092 99.03%
Invalid or blank votes 40 0.97%
Total votes 4,132 100.00%
Registered voters/turnout 4,676 88.37%

The result was 93% of voters in favour of separation, with a voter turnout of 88%. In October the following year the islands were officially separated, and four years after the referendum, the islands became the independent nation of Tuvalu, whilst the Gilbert Islands became Kiribati.

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