What we stand for / Citizen Empowerment

Innovative democracy

Switzerland is considered a pioneer of democracy and we want to bring some best practices from Switzerland to Europe. But Swiss democracy has never stopped learning and can still be improved.

  • Introduce the right to vote and vote from the age of 16
    The right to vote and vote should apply across Switzerland from the age of 16, and political education and media literacy lessons should be given greater weight in schools. This means that more younger people should actively help shape their future.

  • Introduce voting rights for foreigners
    Foreigners should be given the right to vote at the local level - this is already an EU-wide norm and should also apply in Switzerland. Where you live and are part of society, you should also be able to have a say.

  • Build citizens’ councils
    In the spirit of deliberative democracy and in parallel with efforts in other European countries, Switzerland should regularly convene representative groups of Swiss people who can discuss political issues and make suggestions to parliament.

The 5+1 challenges

Volt has defined 5+1 fundamental challenges that need to be addressed in every European country and in Europe as a whole.

Why 5 + 1 challenges?

The 5 challenges are essentially the same for each country, but their implementation can be adapted at the national level to take into account local circumstances.

Challenge No. +1 - our proposal to reform and strengthen the EU - is identical in all our national programs. Here in Switzerland, our relations with the EU are the focus.

Take a look at our Europe-wide programme!
  • 01

    Smart State

    Education and digitalisation are key elements of the 21st century

  • 02

    Economic Renaissance

    An innovative economy is the engine for the progress of society.

  • 03

    Social Equality

    No one should be left behind - regardless of gender, income, religion or origin.

  • 04

    Global Balance

    Europe must live up to its responsibility in the world to secure our common future.

  • 05

    Citizen Empowerment

    European citizens must be able to make informed political decisions, independently influence politics beyond elections and exercise their democratic rights.

  • +1

    EU Reform

    We love the EU - but that doesn't mean there isn't room for improvement.