The Swiss model is highly regarded as one of the best models of democracy in the Western world. It is a highly unusual system where citizens themselves go to the polls and directly vote on referendums.
Thomas Manning articles
Thomas Manning writes for Democracy Chronicles from New York City and is a key part of our increasing coverage of democracy news compiled from across the planet. Checkout the rest of our international team of authors as well. Together, they help cover free and fair elections on every continent with a focus on election reform in the United States.
Are Term Limits the Answer to Bitter Partisanship?
As the partisan divide in the House of Representatives and the Senate intensifies, is there anything that could be done to combat the intensely partisan atmosphere that has poisoned Washington over the past years?
The Blockchain Voting Startups Designing Our Future Elections
Many startup companies are trying to develop election technologies today. Among the newest and most exciting of the next generation of technologies is known as blockchain voting, the same technology behind the digital currency Bitcoin.
Western States Leading the Way to Campaign Finance Reform
In an effort to get more transparency over the role of money in the political process and combat what is known as “dark money,” many states have passed laws that require political donors to reveal more key information.
Republicans Are Blaming Alabama Felon Voters For Senate Loss
If the Republican party in Alabama thinks that felons are to blame for their loss they should take a look in the mirror and do some self-reflecting. What is truly required is for them to rethink their strategy.
Arizona Can Make its Money Politics More Transparent
People shouldn’t have to worry about being bullied for making political donations to a candidate they chose, but on the other hand there should be a counter balance to be able to see where monetary donations to political candidates come from.
Yale Study Shows Voting Does Not Reduce Crime
A study conducted by Yale University has shown that people participating in elections do not necessarily make good citizens. While the study shows that there are some who vote that remain law abiding, the rest of the population does not.
Wisconsin Gerrymandering Case Before Supreme Court Critical
The process of gerrymandering has become extremely political with politicians being able to draw those maps, and largely to the favor for the political party in the majority.
Kurds Vote Overwhelmingly for Independence in Iraq
Following through on a long-desired promise to have a country of their own Kurds in the Kurdistan region of Iraq and Syria have finally been able to place votes for independence.
A Resurgent Russia Causing EU Countries to Increase Military Spending
In response to a resurgent Russia and an ongoing threat from ISIS, EU countries and Sweden are proposing an increase in military budgets.