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.
Europe articles on Democracy Chronicles
View news about the struggle for better democracy in Europe, the birthplace of modern democracy and crucial pillar of the democratic world. Also see our World Democracy section and our Russia articles.
Voters poised to defend Swiss government media spending
Swiss voters on Sunday look set to reject a proposal that would see public broadcasters lose taxpayer funding
A look at the unique but preeminent female Italian politicians
In an election campaign dominated by men of major parties, several women are battling hard to make an impact
Crisis follows Slovak journalist’s murder over corruption investigation
Murdered Slovak journalist Jan Kuciak was about to publish an investigation into high-level political corruption
Stalinism Resurgent as Putin Pushes Whitewashing Soviet History
Decades after the collapse of the Soviet Union, there is fierce debate over the legacy of one of its most brutal dictators
How Success is Changing Italy’s Maverick Five Star Movement
The maverick, anti-establishment Movimento 5 Stelle is the brain-child of stand-up comic Beppe Grillo
Sweden Lays Out Detailed Plan to Combat Election Interference
Local election workers have been trained to identify and stop foreign interference in the voting booths
Court fines Moscow cinema that showed ‘Death of Stalin’
A Russian court on Thursday slapped a $1,700 fine on a Moscow cinema which screened British comedy
Detailed Swedish election security plan provides true protection
Annual report says that Sweden’s “robust” and “decentralised” electoral system is tough to influence
Ally of Kremlin critic Navalny arrested over tweet
Roman Rubanov sentenced to ten days in jail after posting a tweet calling on followers to come to an unauthorised rally