Direct Democracy TODAY
by Simon Gregory
Helpful links and resources
Video Link
WATCH - Switzerland is one of the most exceptional, dazzling and amazing countries in the world.
Despite being nestled between mountains and not having any remarkable natural resources, it has become one of the richest states on the planet. However, what is less well known is that Switzerland has one of the strangest and most extravagant political systems in the world, a system that has become a source of prosperity.
Do you want to know more about a country where presidents are only in power for one year and the "ministers" are from different political parties? Don't miss this video.
WATCH - A bite-sized video on how Switzerland splits power between the federal and cantonal levels—because why have one government when you can have 26 mini ones, ensuring that ordinary people are involved in the important decisions. Each canton is semi-sovereign region with its own parliament, cultural differences, constitution, and tax rules—just enough autonomy to keep things interesting but not enough to move out completely. An intriguing model of organized independence!
WATCH - Swiss Direct Democracy - three layers of citizen participation in political decision making.
What powers do the people have. Perhaps it’s a system that has something others can learn from !
WATCH - Swiss referendums - How does a vote like this get called?
It's all part of Switzerland's direct democracy. *Sound on.