Swiss Ambassador discusses direct democracy

Swiss Ambassador to New Zealand Dr Marion Weichelt gave a public lecture today on politics Swiss style.

Ambassador Weichelt was invited to Massey’s Manawatu campus to talk on Switzerland’s political system and direct democracy. She said it was a pleasure to visit Massey, and share her enthusiasm for the Swiss system.

“In Switzerland we are very proud of our system of direct democracy. There’s no other country to my knowledge, where people have such unique and extensive decision-making powers,” Ambassador Weichelt said.

Her lecture outlined Swiss direct democracy, which dates back to the 19th Century. She talked about how it works, what it means, the political rights and tools of citizens, and how the Swiss have learned to use direct democracy to make decisions on substantive issues.

The Ambassador then answered questions from the audience on voter turnout, patterns and fatigue, the media’s role and funding transparency, and explained politics is a “little bit of a hobby” for Swiss citizens, as it is constantly around them.

Vice-Chancellor Steve Maharey said Massey had a strong and growing interest in the area of government and a very productive relationship with the diplomatic community. He said the lecture raised some very interesting issues for New Zealanders about the effectiveness of democracy.