02: What characterizes the Swiss political system?

Switzerland is based on a federal constitution (basic law of the state) and is thus a Rule of law. She is a direct democracy, citizens can therefore have a strong say in public affairs.

 Switzerland is often even referred to as a model democracy. There are four main reasons for this:

  • The individual freedoms of every person are guaranteed by the Federal Constitution.
  • Minorities are thanks to a federalist state structure protected.
  • The Voice of the people is in Switzerland widely developed. Therefore, several times a year Referendums are held, in which citizens can participate in decision-making on important issues.
  • By means of Popular initiative citizens can demand an amendment to the Federal Constitution. And with a Referendum it is possible to submit parliamentary resolutions to the people for a final decision after the fact.

Switzerland is also federalist, because it is made up of cantons that enjoy extensive autonomy. Today Switzerland counts 26 cantonsfrom which six Half-Cantons are.

More information:
Information on the Swiss political system

en_USEN
Scroll to Top