According to Albert Rösti, Switzerland is a special case of freedom
Published: Wednesday, Jul 31st 2024, 19:40
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Federal Councillor Albert Rösti (SVP) focused on the rights of the people during his speech on Wednesday evening to mark Swiss National Day. Citizen participation is an outlet for dissatisfaction, he said at the National Day celebrations in Kesswil TG.
In his speech, Rösti praised Switzerland's system of government as the "best in the world". He spoke of a "special case of freedom".
The country had already embarked on the path of democracy with the Federal Constitution of 1848. At that time, Switzerland, as an exotic country "in the midst of a continent of monarchies and dynasties", prevented a concentration of power by enshrining federalism in the constitution.
Gas pedal and brake for citizens
"We vote more in a single year than the citizens of other countries do in their entire lives," the Federal Councillor reminded the 500 or so visitors in a marquee on the shores of Lake Constance. Elsewhere, people would take to the streets, here they could go to the ballot box.
Direct democracy transforms anger and rage into political participation. Referendums would channel discontent and dampen tensions, acting as an outlet for dissatisfaction. "That is the foundation of our now world-famous stability."
Thanks to their popular rights, citizens are the highest authority in the country. They have the final say with the optional referendum. "Citizens can put the brakes on if they don't like something."
But they would also have been given an accelerator pedal. "If we are of the opinion that nothing is happening on an important issue, then we can accelerate in the desired direction with a popular initiative."
Federal Councillor Rösti made his way through the packed tent before beginning his speech and shook the hands of numerous friendly guests.
©Keystone/SDA
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