Direct democracy at a glance

Switzerland is a semi-direct democracy. The people elect Parliament, and Parliament makes the laws. But in addition, the people also decide directly on specific issues. There are popular votes several times a year. This is rare worldwide. In many other countries the people only elect the parliament and do not decide on laws themselves. This is called indirect democracy.

There are two important tools for this. With the popular initiative, the people bring in a new idea for the Constitution. With the referendum, they vote on decisions of Parliament, for example on a new law. In this way the voters have a direct influence on the Constitution and the laws.

Not everything is put to the people. There are no votes on party programmes, radio and television programme schedules or filling posts in the administration. The Federal Council is not elected by the people but by the Federal Assembly. Taking part in a party is an indirect way of influencing politics.