When people think of direct democracy, Switzerland often comes to mind, along with scenic mountains, and punctual trains. Historically, though the first serious attempts to complement representative government with mechanisms of direct democracy were shaped by practices in the United States and Switzerland in the late 19th century.
Direct Democracy Delivered
Switzerland (41,000 km², pop. 9 million) is frequently called the “midwife” of modern direct democracy—though in my view calling it a “stubborn yet resourceful mountain child” might be more accurate. It is a nice sort of stubbornness.
Modern direct democracy is mainly defined by the use of secret ballots rather than old-fashioned town square shouting matches.
Which came first?
Switzerland didn’t invent direct democracy—rather, direct democracy invented Switzerland when the Swiss public voted in 1848 to establish the Swiss Confederation.
In other words, the country came into being via referendum, much like a start-up that launched itself with a Kickstarter campaign.
Practice makes Perfect
In the past 50 years, Switzerland has fully embraced the "initiative" and "referendum" system within its representative government. Since 1971, Swiss men and women over 18 have been invited to make binding decisions more than 450 times at the national level—an electoral workout that has probably made them more politically engaged than their coffee-fuelled European neighbours.
You'll be Surprised at who can Initiate a Public Vote
What’s even more unusual is that elected officials in Switzerland can’t simply put a question to a public vote whenever it suits them.
Unlike in many other democracies where leaders sometimes use referendums to settle political disputes (or dodge responsibility), in Switzerland, only the people can trigger a vote—either by collecting signatures or through mandatory legal requirements for constitutional changes and major financial decisions.
Switzerland provides a fascinating case study of how to blend indirect and direct democracy—kind of like mixing cheese and chocolate, two things that probably shouldn’t go together but somehow work in their own unique way. #DirectDemocracy
What are the key takeaways?
Switzerland didn’t invent direct democracy—direct democracy invented Switzerland through a public vote in 1848 to establish the Swiss Confederation.
Swiss democracy is more than just tradition; it’s a system where citizens, not politicians, decide when to vote—no government-triggered referendums here!
Since 1971, Swiss citizens have voted over 450 times at the national level, making political engagement almost a national sport.
Referendums and initiatives are binding, meaning Swiss voters don’t just express opinions—they directly shape laws and policies.
Switzerland showcases a unique and efficient blend of direct and representative democracy, offering lessons for other nations.
Interesting, isn't it? How about in your country?
コメント