Programme

Track 1:  Swiss Direct Democracy in Practice

Made in Switzerland! Switzerland’s greatest export is not luxury watches, but modern direct democracy. Swiss citizens have a direct say in matters that affect their lives such as military spending, socio-political issues and constitutional reforms. As such, Switzerland is a pioneer of multilevel participatory democracy which should serve as a blueprint for democracy in Europe and around the world. What can we learn from this thriving example of direct democracy and what is on the ballot for the national voting day on 27 September?

Track 2: Climate, Sustainability and Direct Democracy

Direct Democracy is at the forefront of the fight against climate change with initiatives in France, the UK and Austria recently making waves. Citizens are coming to the realisation that they cannot rely on status quo politics to stop climate change and that direct democracy offers an opportunity to solve one of humankind’s biggest collective challenges.

Track 3: Future of Democracy

The times are changing, and democracy should change as well! In a constantly globalising world, with information at our fingertips, many people have become disillusioned by the direction politics is taking. Especially the younger generation is being emboldened by the direct democratic atmosphere and it is becoming increasingly clear that the days of technocratic government are coming to an end. The future of democracy should undoubtedly entail a move towards stronger elements of participatory democracy to supplement representative government.

Track 4: Democracy in Crisis

In a world where we are confronted with seemingly overwhelming democratic crises, direct democracy represents a glimmer of hope! In many countries pre-existing crises have been exacerbated by the Covid-19 global pandemic. Through direct democracy, citizens can shield themselves from dictatorial regimes, work together in recovering from Covid-19 and build a better future. Find out how a global alliance of citizens and civil society can help this process.