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Democracy

The worst form of government – apart from everything else

Keystone

Switzerland’s unique form of direct democracy is praised around the world. But doesn’t low voter turnout weaken it somewhat? What’s more, isn’t there a danger of the ‘tyranny of the majority’? And aren’t some issues simply too complicated to be left to the general public? 

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Born in London, Thomas was a journalist at The Independent before moving to Bern in 2005. He speaks all three official Swiss languages and enjoys travelling the country and practising them, above all in pubs, restaurants and gelaterias.

Thomas Stephens

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Switzerland’s direct democracy

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How Switzerland’s political system of direct democracy works

This content was published on Together with neutrality and federalism, direct democracy is a part of the Swiss national identity and helps unite the various languages, religions and cultures in the country. This video gives you a short introduction to this unique political system. (Produced by swissinfo.ch on behalf of the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad)Please note: This video was made in 2011. The political landscape has changed and the numbers are no longer representative. For more recent figures go to the Democracy Barometer project page.

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SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR

SWI swissinfo.ch - a branch of Swiss Broadcasting Corporation SRG SSR