Direct democracy

How many initiatives have been passed in Switzerland

16 out of 169 proposed

What are the key principales of direct democracy ?

Direct - the pople make the descisons Unmediated- the people arethe government Continous- an ongoing process of change

What. Are the three times of votes in Switzerland's direct democracy ?

Municipal vote- local voting issues eg. Local construction Cantonal vote- voting on polices eg. Public smoking National vote - international affairs

What are the problems with direct democracy ?

Often a small turn out Not an anonymous vote and so voters can be swayed by others Time consuming Expensive The wealthy can spend a loot of money on influencing others Can lead to tyranny of the majority ( will always win )

What are the advantages of direct democracy ?

People have a direct say in what happens in their country The people will be more aware on current affairs Prevents power of the elite and class systems

When is direct democracy used today ?

Town hall meetings - America eg. Vermont Referendum - uk Initiatives- America Switzerland