As a reporter I cover developments in democracy where the Swiss perspective becomes relevant.
I am Swiss and have long been fascinated by the way public discussions shape society.
‘Part of warfare’: Russian involvement in Swiss neutrality debates
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Propaganda expert Ian Garner breaks down what Russia wanted to achieve with statements about the September 27 “neutrality initiative” vote.
Switzerland rejects the neutrality initiative: reactions from both sides
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On Sunday, Swissinfo journalists visited both sides of the campaign on the initiative to enshrine a strict definition of neutrality in the constitution.
Swiss democracy in the crosshairs of Russian propaganda
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The vote on the neutrality initiative saw open interference by Russia – as well as covert operations, Swiss authorities say.
When Winston Churchill called for European unity in neutral Zurich
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In September 1946, Winston Churchill delivered a famous speech in Zurich, calling for a “United States of Europe”. What became of his idea?
Swiss invention helps Tibet’s diaspora make election choices
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Swiss-Tibetan political scientist Palmo Brunner explains why the tool used 13,000 times during the exile elections matters.
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Although voter turnout in Switzerland is low by international standards, very few eligible voters never go to the polls at all.
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Swiss direct democracy is often seen as an example for the rest of the world. Yet only a minority of eligible Swiss voters go to the polls.
What Chile’s 1988 referendum can teach democrats today
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We asked our users whether they had cast their vote in what was arguably the most consequential referendum ever held under a dictatorship.
A ‘European disaster’: a personal reflection in photographs on the Yugoslav Wars
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Swissinfo photographer Thomas Kern witnessed the wars in Croatia and Bosnia and, for several months, the siege of Sarajevo. A personal retrospective.
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Canada lacks a formal mechanism for cooperation between the federal government and the provinces, experts say ahead of the votes in Alberta.
Swiss report sheds light on state of direct democracy worldwide
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The Centre for Democracy Studies Aarau now produces an annual overview of referendums held in Switzerland and around the world.
Are citizens’ assemblies on the decline in an era of eroding democracy?
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In Switzerland, a long-planned citizens’ assembly was shelved in Geneva shortly before it was due to begin. Is this part of an international trend?
Swiss government minister files digital abuse complaint against AI chatbot Grok
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The complaint sends a bold signal against digital abuse and marks a clear break from the US understanding of free speech.
What Romania’s election turmoil reveals about TikTok’s political influence
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After an election was cancelled over Russian interference, Switzerland supported the Romanian think tank Expert Forum in gathering evidence.
