Swiss democracy

The purest democracy? Visiting one of Switzerland’s historic open-air assemblies

This content was published on May 5, 2025 The annual “Landsgemeinde” in Glarus is like a folk festival, a party, and a crash-course in politics rolled into one. Is it democratically relevant?

Swiss democracy

‘Collegiality’ – a concept at the heart of Swiss governance

This content was published on May 2, 2025 What is “collegiality” and how exactly does it work – and help decision-making – for the seven-member Federal Council?

Would you work for your municipality or country for free?

The Swiss militia system gives many people political responsibility but no salary. Would that be something for your country?

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Apr 24, 2025

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Swiss democracy

How the Swiss militia system strengthens civic identity – and favours the privileged

This content was published on Apr 24, 2025 The militia principle is a special feature of Swiss democracy. It strengthens the connection between those who govern and those who are governed. An explainer.

swiss parliament building surrounded by mist

Swiss democracy

‘One for all, all for one’ – how the Swiss government makes decisions

This content was published on Apr 22, 2025 Secret meetings, no prime minister, and a seven-member executive that defends decisions collectively – the Swiss system of “collegiality” explained.

Swiss democracy

How Swiss federalism emerged and shapes the nation

This content was published on Apr 11, 2025 In a country with four official languages and 26 cantons, federalism is a principle deeply rooted in the people and political system of Switzerland.

Swiss democracy

How Swiss federalism emerged and shapes the nation

This content was published on Apr 9, 2025 How is Swiss federalism emerged and where does it come from? Find out more in this video.

Swiss democracy

How Swiss direct democracy works

This content was published on Mar 31, 2025 What do direct democratic tools like popular initiatives and referendums really entail? And how has this unique system evolved over time?

Opponents of Covid-19 measures on the Rütli meadown on Lake Lucerne, Switzerland, in July 2021.

Swiss democracy

Study reveals antipathy towards marginalised groups in Switzerland

This content was published on Mar 26, 2025 Minority groups like Covid-19 skeptics and climate campaigners are particularly unappreciated.

Swiss democracy

In Switzerland, trust and stability are interwoven

This content was published on Mar 25, 2025 The global political order is in upheaval, yet Switzerland remains relatively stable. SWI swissinfo.ch reporter Benjamin von Wyl analyses why.

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Swiss democracy

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The purest democracy? Visiting one of Switzerland’s historic open-air assemblies

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‘Collegiality’ – a concept at the heart of Swiss governance

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Would you work for your municipality or country for free?

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How the Swiss militia system strengthens civic identity – and favours the privileged

More

‘One for all, all for one’ – how the Swiss government makes decisions

More

How Swiss federalism emerged and shapes the nation

More

How Swiss federalism emerged and shapes the nation

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How Swiss direct democracy works

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Study reveals antipathy towards marginalised groups in Switzerland

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In Switzerland, trust and stability are interwoven

Popular Stories

Most Discussed