Swiss democracy

Swiss government makes a case for e-ID ahead of referendum

Federal Council promotes secure, voluntary and free e-ID

This content was published on Aug 12, 2025 The electronic-ID is secure and easy to use and its use is voluntary and free of charge: these are the arguments the government made in its campaign for a 'Yes' vote on the e-ID Act slated for September 28.

Every summer, the village square in Bassersdorf, Canton Zurich, is the venue for the town meeting. The photo was taken in June 2017.

Swiss democracy

Swiss municipal assemblies: democracy on your doorstep

This content was published on Aug 12, 2025 In many Swiss municipalities, voters gather in local assemblies to decide on community matters themselves instead of leaving them to parliaments of elected officials.

Two initiatives tabled to curb wind turbines

Climate solutions

Swiss citizens will be voting on restricting wind farm expansion

This content was published on Jul 25, 2025 On Friday, the Association for the Protection of Nature and Democracy submitted two initiatives aimed at curbing the expansion of wind farms. More than 110,000 signatures have been collected.

Swiss democracy

Inheritance tax referendum spooks Swiss super-rich

This content was published on Jun 23, 2025 Bankers and lawyers warn of exodus ahead of public vote on 50% rate for the very wealthy.

Sarah Wyss, Chair of the Finance Committee, in parliament on June 5.

Swiss Politics

Swiss parliamentary session sets stage for noisy national debates

This content was published on Jun 23, 2025 The summer session of parliament drew to a close last week. What's clear is that political debate in Switzerland is picking up again. Parliamentarians focused on several key upcoming people’s initiatives.

How important are common resources in today’s world?

In a globalised world, are collectively-managed land or resources – so-called commons – still relevant?

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Jun 20, 2025

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Elinor Ostrom receives the Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden

Swiss democracy

The Swiss mountain village that inspired a Nobel Prize and digital governance

This content was published on Jun 20, 2025 A small Swiss mountain village has become the focus of scientific attention thanks to Nobel Prize winner Elinor Ostrom.

Swiss democracy

Stalking will now be a criminal offence in Switzerland

This content was published on Jun 19, 2025 Swiss parliament has voted in favour of making stalking a criminal offence.

people looking at vote information in a window

Democracy

A delicate export: how Swiss foreign policy promotes democracy

This content was published on Jun 13, 2025 Switzerland has a constitutional mandate to promote democracy around the world. What happens when that world starts looking more authoritarian?

Global elections

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.

Swiss democracy

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