Theguardian iconTheguardianSep 28, 2026 ~1 min source read

Switzerland’s love of referendums keeps the far right at bay | Joseph de Weck

The Swiss approach could be what Europe needs now Fascism rests on a two-part confidence trick. Then they argue that only by being granted sweeping powers can that be realised.

Switzerland’s love of referendums keeps the far right at bay | Joseph de Weck
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Then they argue that only by being granted sweeping powers can that be realised.

That is because the policies championed by the far right rarely pass the referendum test.

First, a leader claims to embody the will of the people.

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The useful part

The Swiss approach could be what Europe needs now Fascism rests on a two-part confidence trick. Then they argue that only by being granted sweeping powers can that be realised. That is because the policies championed by the far right rarely pass the referendum test.

How it works

  • In March, 62% of Swiss voters rejected a far-right initiative to halve funding for the country's public broadcaster.
  • Again, 59% rejected a far-right proposal to automatically deport foreign nationals convicted of crimes without judicial review.
  • Or this week's resounding 70% "No" vote on a far-right proposal to tighten Switzerland's neutrality to the point that Bern would have been forced to drop sanctions on Russia over Ukraine.

Details worth keeping

First, a leader claims to embody the will of the people. Having grown up in Switzerland, I find it easy to see through this trick. In 2017, 59% struck down such plans of the Swiss government.

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