Swiss Political Initiatives and Referendums

The Swiss citizens can propose changes to the constitution with 100,000 signatures in 18 months and require a double majority (people and cantons) to pass.

The Swiss citizens can stop a new law passed by parliament by gathering 50,000 signatures in 100 days and achieving a simple majority (more yes than no) vote.

Constitutional amendments require approval by the Swiss citizens through a vote. A double majority (people and cantons) is needed for the amendment to pass.

When the Parliament proposes its own constitutional bill as an alternative to a popular initiative, which goes for a vote along with the original initiative. Both options are presented to the public.

Parliament proposes a legislative bill as an alternative to a popular initiative addressing the issue through ordinary laws (not constitutional amendments). The initiative and the counter-proposal are voted on separately.

Decisions are made if more people vote 'yes' than 'no'.

Decisions require a majority of cantons and a majority of people voting for them.

This is the fundamental right to formally express concerns, complaints or proposals to the state. Citizens can petition for action without fear of retaliation. It's a vital aspect of democracy.

The system used in the USA to elect the president. Each state receives a set number of electoral votes, and the candidate with the most electoral votes wins.

Official groups within a parliament, responsible for discussing, drafting, and voting on laws and policies. Think of them as specialist teams within the parliament.

Groups of parliament members focusing on specific topics, discussing them before a full parliament debate. It's like a pre-meeting for the big meeting.

A proposal that asks the Federal Council to draft a new law or take action. Think of it as a request for new legislation or action.

A mandate for the Federal Council to study and report on whether a new law or action is necessary. It's like asking the council to do their research before making decisions.

A question demanding an explanation from the Federal Council about important events or federal matters. It's like asking for answers to important questions.

An initiative for a new law proposed by a member of the council, a group of parliamentarians, or a legislative committee. It's like a draft law proposed for consideration.

There are three levels of law in the Swiss legal system: the Constitution (highest level), Laws (ordinary laws), and Regulations (issued by the Federal Council).

The process of creating a new law in Switzerland involves three main phases: 1. Initial phase, 2. Parliamentary phase, and 3. Vote and entry into force.

Groups formed in parliament by at least 5 members from the same council. They collaborate to discuss and influence decisions, gaining more influence with larger membership and more committee seats.

Members agree together to ensure majority support for their policies. It's like everybody agreeing to act in a unified way.

Members of the Federal Council are expected to fully back and represent the council's decisions, even if they personally disagree. This ensures unity despite differing opinions.

All political parties are integrated into the system and share decision-making. This contrasts with systems where the majority party dominates decision-making.

The Swiss federal administration is organized into seven departments, each headed by a Federal Councillor. These departments regulate government functions.

Influencing government officials directly, through personal contact, to advocate for specific interests. It's like persuading politicians to act in a certain way.

It involves gathering signatures from the citizens to propose a new law or constitutional change.

The process of revising laws to correct mistakes or adapt them to new circumstances. It's like updating laws to make them better.

Legislation that aims to ensure equal rights for all citizens, regardless of their gender, ethnicity, religion, or other characteristics. It's like making sure everyone has the same rights.

The body of laws that regulate the relationship between employers and their employees. It's like a set of rules defining working conditions.

A political system where the people are involved in making decisions through voting on laws and policies. It is an active form of democracy.

A political system where citizens vote on laws directly with their votes, but political leaders still hold significant power. People have a direct say, but it's not the only deciding factor.

The government is accountable to the Parliament, with power to dismiss government officials if they lose confidence. It's like parliament can fire the government.

The government is separate from Parliament and elected independently. The President acts as head of state.