Did you know that the Swiss consider themselves to have three distinct citizenships, 1) Federal, 2) Cantonal and 3) Communal.

Given that a number of leading UK politicians, influencers, political commentators and others are actively pushing for a Direct Democracy model based on the Swiss system, below is a list of the benefits of Swiss Direct Democracy we can look forward to if implemented.

The list makes for exciting reading for those interested in freedom, transparency & accountability, alongside ensuring that the voices of citizens aren't just heard, but acted upon through the use of mechanisms such as referendums at three levels of society, National, Regional and Local.

It is democracy taken back and given a super boost!

1. Increased citizen participation: Swiss direct democracy encourages high levels of citizen involvement in political decision-making.

2. Enhanced accountability: Politicians and public officials are held more accountable to the electorate.

3. Greater transparency: Frequent referendums and initiatives lead to a more open and transparent government process.

4. Policy alignment with public opinion: Policies are more likely to reflect the will and preferences of the majority.

5. Empowerment of minorities: Minority groups can have a voice through referendums and initiatives.

6. Reduction in government overreach: Citizens can directly block or reverse government decisions that overstep.

7. Stronger local governance: Cantons and communes have significant autonomy, allowing for tailored policies that meet local needs.

8. Improved trust in government: Frequent opportunities to vote can increase trust and legitimacy in the political system.

9. Enhanced civic education: Regular participation in direct democracy can lead to a more politically informed populace.

10. Promotion of debate and discussion: Issues are publicly debated more frequently, fostering a culture of discourse.

11. Flexibility in law-making: Laws can be adapted or repealed quickly based on changing public opinion.

12. Conflict resolution: Referendums provide a peaceful means for resolving contentious issues.

13. Protection of civil liberties: Citizens have the power to safeguard their rights directly.

14. Reduction of special interest influence: Direct votes reduce the influence of lobbyists and special interest groups.

15. Innovation in policy-making: Citizen-led initiatives can introduce innovative ideas and solutions.

16. Strengthening of federalism: The system reinforces the federal structure by granting significant power to cantonal and communal levels.

17. Balancing power: Direct democracy acts as a check on legislative and executive branches.

18. Encouragement of compromise: The need to gain broad support for initiatives fosters political compromise.

19. Cost efficiency: Although frequent voting can be expensive, long-term savings can arise from better-aligned policies.

20. Reduction in political polarization: Frequent referendums can dilute extreme partisan positions.

21. Enhanced social cohesion: Collective decision-making can strengthen national and local community bonds.

22. Timely policy response: Direct democracy allows for quick responses to emerging issues.

23. Environmental protection: Citizens can directly vote on environmental policies, often leading to strong protections.

24. Economic benefits: Policies closely aligned with public preferences can lead to a stable and predictable business environment.

25. Cultural preservation: Cantonal and communal autonomy allows for the protection and promotion of local cultures.

26. Legislative experimentation: Cantons can serve as "laboratories" for policy experimentation, benefiting the entire nation.

27. Protection of public goods: Citizens can directly vote on the preservation and enhancement of public services and infrastructure.

28. Preventing corruption: Transparency and citizen oversight reduce opportunities for corruption.

29. Promotion of justice: Public involvement in law-making ensures that justice reflects societal values.

30. Health and safety improvements: Direct votes can lead to swift action on public health and safety concerns.

31. Promotion of equality: Direct democracy can address issues of inequality and social justice more effectively.

32. Resilience to crises: A politically engaged citizenry can better respond to national crises.

33. Better representation: Citizens feel their views are more accurately represented in government policies.

34. Civic pride: Active participation in governance fosters a sense of pride and ownership in one's community.

35. Innovation in governance: The Swiss model serves as an example and inspiration for democratic innovation worldwide.