Political rights
Rights enabling citizens to participate in public decision-making, especially by voting, elections, initiatives and referendums.
Political rights are the democratic participation rights of citizens. In Switzerland they are especially important because direct democracy allows voters to decide on constitutional amendments, legislation and other public questions through elections, votes, initiatives and referendums at federal, cantonal and communal levels. These rights include free formation and expression of the political will, reliable voting procedures and protection against manipulation or serious irregularities. Eligibility and scope depend on the level of government and applicable citizenship or residence rules, with cantons and communes retaining specific arrangements.