The Congress of the Swiss Abroad focuses on democracy

The electoral turnout in Switzerland has increased slightly over recent years – after reaching a low point in 1995 with a 42% turnout – but over half of the electorate still does not vote. Why is that? What motivates people to vote? This year’s Congress of the Swiss Abroad tackles this and other issues. Its theme is “Educating citizens – a guarantee of a vibrant democracy”.

In view of the federal elections in the autumn, the Organisation of the Swiss Abroad wishes to highlight the importance of political participation through its choice of theme. This is a fundamental requirement for a vibrant democracy.

Prominent speakers will share their views on the theme of the congress. They will include Federal Councillor Doris Leuthard, head of the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC), Hans Stöckli, member of the Council of States for the canton of Berne and President of the New Helvetic Society, Manon Schick, Director General of Amnesty International Switzerland and Arthur Honegger, foreign affairs correspondent for the Swiss TV station SRF.

Further information and the registration form are available on our website: www.aso-kongress.ch