In partnership with the Organization of American States (OAS), the Embassy of Switzerland in Washington, D.C. showed an exhibition titled “Modern Direct Democracy” from May 22 – June 2, 2023.

Direct democracy mechanisms are a hallmark of the Swiss political system and at the same time a fundamental pillar of Switzerland’s engagement with the OAS. The exhibition provided an overview of Switzerland’s own journey to establish its modern democratic political institutions, as well as the history of the Inter-American System that protects direct democracy in the Americas. It showcased the different instruments of direct democracy in Switzerland and the Americas and highlighted the crucial role of the OAS in observing direct democracy mechanisms.

Direct democracy at its core, is a complex concept, and as such, needs to be implemented carefully in order to allow a free expression of political opinions. Switzerland and the OAS are strong partners that share the commitment to inclusive democratic processes and institutions. Switzerland is a Permanent Observer of the OAS and supports different projects and institutions of the OAS system that protect human rights, strengthen good governance, and promote inclusive peace and democratic processes. Switzerland is proud to support this work through all facets and avenues of elections and participation. For instance, Switzerland supported the Department of Electoral Cooperation and Observation of the OAS on creating a manual for OAS electoral observation missions in 2022. Moreover, Switzerland will be contributing to an upcoming election observation mission in Guatemala, and continue to support ongoing conceptual work and foster the dialogue on direct democracy mechanisms.