Global elections

Does democracy really make the world more peaceful?

This content was published on Jul 15, 2025 Many people are convinced of this. But is it true? Political scientists give their opinions.

Voting at 16: more than just a symbolic gesture?

This content was published on Jul 14, 2025 Should 16-year-olds be given the vote? In Switzerland, the idea is often on the political agenda – and is just as often thrown off it again.

Political characters: ‘A dark personality has become an electoral asset’

This content was published on Jun 15, 2025 Leaders showing signs of narcissism or ruthlessness tend to be backed by voters with more polarised views, according to researchers.

Italy’s referendum flop sends a warning to the left

This content was published on Jun 12, 2025 Italy’s latest referendums fell short of reaching the required turnout. Political scientist Giorgio Malet puts the results into perspective.

Tajik ruler Emomali Rahmon and Vladimir Putin shake hands after their meeting in Moscow in March 2025.

Promoting democracy in authoritarian Tajikistan – is Switzerland making a difference?

This content was published on Apr 30, 2025 While the government of Tajikistan’s long-standing ruler grows more repressive, Switzerland continues to support human rights – a delicate balancing act.

Stephan Büchi in his flat in Köniz near Bern, with pictures of some of his favourite places in Romania on the wall.

One Swiss man’s patient work towards a democratic Romania

This content was published on Apr 13, 2025 After the fall of the Iron Curtain, Stephan Büchi took up a short-term role in a Romanian children’s home. Decades later, his heart still beats for the country.

Why the AfD is keen on Switzerland’s direct democracy

This content was published on Feb 24, 2025 The far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) has long advocated for “Swiss-style” direct democracy. What does the party hope to achieve with this?

Kosovars living in Switzerland participate in the 2025 parliamentary elections

This content was published on Feb 20, 2025 In this video, Kosovars living in Switzerland talk about their experiences of voting in person for the first time in Switzerland.

Supporters of left-wing Vetevendosje! party celebrate following results of a parliamentary election, in Pristina,

When Kosovo votes, so do 27,000 Kosovars in Switzerland

This content was published on Feb 19, 2025 A large number voted for the incumbent prime minister, Albin Kurti – who is well aware of the importance of his supporters in the diaspora.

January 6, 2021: supporters of Donald Trump break through security and storm into the symbolic heart of US democracy, the Capitol in Washington.

Why some people turn to authoritarianism in the name of freedom

This content was published on Jan 25, 2025 Sociologists Carolin Amlinger and Oliver Nachtwey explain the sometimes surprising origins of a new type of anti-democratic figure.