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Direct Democracy TODAY
by Simon Gregory


Decentralization Has Fostered an Ever Prosperous Switzerland Decentralization in Switzerland:
Great article from Natanael Rother, a Swiss Research Fellow specialising in "Localism" Localism in Switzerland refers to a governance...
5thavenueartist
Apr 19, 20242 min read
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ATTENTION PLEASE! - "Politicians vs. the People: A Comedy of Errors in Modern Governance" – All the World’s a Stage
In the theatre of politics, it seems our dear politicians have missed the memo on the latest script. Out of Step While they're busy...
5thavenueartist
Apr 18, 20242 min read
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How to "recall" an elected official
In Switzerland, citizens enjoy a peculiar power: the ability to give their elected officials the old "You're fired!" treatment through...
5thavenueartist
Apr 17, 20244 min read
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The Conditions for Political Reformation are in Place
The development of the printing press by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century was a revolutionary advancement in communication...
5thavenueartist
Apr 16, 20244 min read
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"Democracy 5.0: A Radical Upgrade for the Modern Age"
The phrase, "The Expulsive Power of a Greater Affection" was coined by the Scottish minister and theologian Thomas Chalmers. Chalmers...
5thavenueartist
Apr 15, 20243 min read
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How "Direct Democracy" Prevents the "Commodification of Democracy"
Imagine democracy like a valuable idea or concept, like fairness and equality for everyone. Now, think of this idea being treated like...
5thavenueartist
Apr 13, 20243 min read
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More about Swiss Style Referendums Financial Referendums - Democratic Oversight of Public Finances
Financial referendums in Switzerland provide citizens with the opportunity to directly influence major financial decisions made by their...
5thavenueartist
Apr 13, 20243 min read
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Direct Democracy - The Mechanics at a Local Level
In addition to the elements I have written about in other posts, there are several other noteworthy aspects of Swiss direct democracy:...
5thavenueartist
Apr 11, 20243 min read
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Why is there a surge in interest in Direct Democracy at the advent of the age of the democratisation of communication?
The surge in interest in direct democracy across Western nations can be attributed to several interconnected factors. Out of Touch...
5thavenueartist
Apr 11, 20242 min read
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The Irreconcilable Differences Between the EU and Switzerland: A Clash of Centralization and Subsidiarity Two Distinct Models in Stark Contrast
In the landscape of European politics, two distinct models of governance stand in stark contrast: the European Union (EU) and...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20243 min read
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"The Republic and Canton of Jura" - The Power of Decentralization - Managing Your own Destiny
In 1978, the Canton of Jura was established as an independent republic within the Swiss Confederation. The Canton of Jura, located in the...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20242 min read
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The Swiss Cantons' Unique System of Checks and Balances in Government Policy - Several Cantons can come Together with a Different View to the Government.
In Switzerland, the concept of sovereignty extends not only to the federal government but also to its individual cantons. This unique...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20243 min read
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Part I Bilateral Agreements - A Question of Sovereignty
Switzerland's extensive use of bilateral agreements and its status as a non-member of the European Union (EU) are very much connected to...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20242 min read
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Part II - The Impact of Supranational Entities on National Decision-Making: A Closer Look at Switzerland's Approach
In today's interconnected world, the dynamics of decision-making power allocation between national governments and supranational entities...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20243 min read
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Posters, Posters & More Posters!
In addition to the breath-taking mountains, serene lakes, and immaculate cities, towns, and villages, Switzerland often features a...
5thavenueartist
Apr 10, 20243 min read
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In Switzerland Direct Democracy works for many reasons. It is not just about referendums, there's also something about other aspects of "localism" that make it work, even the tax regime!
Title: The Unique Interplay of Tax Regimes and Direct Democracy in Switzerland In the heart of Europe lies a nation renowned not only for...
5thavenueartist
Apr 8, 20243 min read
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Why are the Swiss Cantonal Banks important when it comes to Direct Democracy? What about your banking system?
Switzerland has 24 cantonal banks, each serving its respective canton. These banks are primarily owned by the cantonal governments and...
5thavenueartist
Apr 8, 20242 min read
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Political Elites | The Role of Government | Giving Everyone a Voice
Jean-Jacques Rousseau was an influential philosopher, writer, and political theorist who lived during the 18th century. He was born on...
5thavenueartist
Apr 8, 20242 min read
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Political Engagement in Switzerland - How Citizens are Informed - One Vote Here Today
In Switzerland, political engagement among the populace surpasses that of any other nation. The perception that the government serves as...
5thavenueartist
Apr 7, 20243 min read
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My Poem about Referendums
"They Don't Like Referendums" In the halls of power, where politicians roam, There's a fear of something that feels like home. It's not...
5thavenueartist
Apr 7, 20241 min read
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