Switzerland - Covenant for Civil and Political Rights Treaty

A report to the UN Human Rights Committee with recommendations for questions to direct to the State party in its list of issues ahead of Switzerland's review under the ICCPR. Prescribed topics fall under the theme of political participation, including:

1.  Insufficient Digitial Mechanisms & E-Voting.—Several cantons have introduced e-voting, including Basel-Stadt, St Gallen and Thurgau. However, in 2019, e-voting was shut down due to security concerns; the lack of faith and security in e-voting posits questions about its ability to ensure civil society is properly represented in elections. Indeed, the integrity of the vote is critical to any public affairs system.

2. Suppression of Free Speech in Civics Education.—A case in canton Vaud is of concern to the Centre in which political debates in educational institutions were declared unacceptable in the weeks leading up to Swiss federal elections. Political discourse and debate is vital to fostering an informed, engaged electorate.

3. Lack of civic engagement.—Regular referendum voting, made possible by direct democracy, makes tracking elections difficult. Most Swiss do not vote; furthermore, many also hold societal views that others will take action. Voter education is needed to stimulate the stagnant electorate.