Since WWII, governments across Europe have become increasingly bureaucratic, accumulating more power at the expense of their citizens. Switzerland has largely resisted this thanks to our direct democracy. But how democratic is our system really today? Running a referendum campaign can cost hundreds of thousands of francs. The average Swiss citizen stands little chance of financing one. Meanwhile, major decisions are being made without consulting the people. The end of banking secrecy for US citizens, sanctions against Russia, and countless others. Our government seems to have increasingly more freedom to make decisions that affect our neutrality, our economy, and our future without asking us. Wasn’t Switzerland built on the principle that we govern ourselves, rather than blindly trusting politicians? I increasingly feel that both our direct democracy and neutrality are being eroded. And perhaps the biggest problem is us. Are Swiss citizens becoming as politically disengaged as our neighbors, willingly surrendering their influence because they can’t be bothered to participate? Here’s what I’d change:
- Mandatory voting: Everyone below retirement age should participate in federal votes. Don’t vote? Pay a fine. Vote? Get a tax reduction. Democracy comes with responsibilities.
- Better political information: RTS and SRF have become increasingly biased, in my opinion. I’d love to see free, publicly accessible debates before every vote, bringing together scientists, economists, historians, and ordinary citizens to discuss the actual issues rather than push political agendas.
- Less party loyalty, more independent thinking: Too many people seem to vote based on what their favorite party recommends rather than what the proposal actually says. That’s not independent thinking. Switzerland has one of the most extraordinary political systems in the world. But it only works if people actually use it. Are we still a country that governs itself, or are we slowly becoming another European state where citizens vote occasionally while politicians make the real decisions? Curious to hear your thoughts. submitted by /u/Moist_Fill_2306
Originally posted by u/Moist_Fill_2306 on r/Switzerland