What term describes a binding vote on an issue by all eligible citizens?

The term that describes a binding vote on an issue by all eligible citizens is "referendum." A referendum allows the public to directly vote on specific legislative proposals or constitutional changes. This democratic process enables citizens to express their approval or disapproval of a particular measure, providing a clear mandate on complex or controversial issues.

In contrast, an election typically involves voting for representatives or officials rather than directly deciding on a specific policy or issue. A plebiscite is similar to a referendum but is often non-binding and seeks the opinion of the electorate on a matter without the obligation for the government to act on the results. Consensus refers to a general agreement among a group, which is not necessarily achieved through a formal voting process. The uniqueness of a referendum lies in its binding nature, which directly influences legislation or governance based on the populace's decision.