Switzerland Considers Digital Signature Collection for Referendums

Senate backs motion for implementing e-collecting system for popular initiatives, potentially transforming how democratic participation works in Switzerland.

Key Takeaways

The Swiss Senate has voted in favor of implementing digital signature collection for popular initiatives
Switzerland plans to introduce a digital ID scheme (e-ID) by 2026
Currently, less than 2% of voters' signatures are required for initiatives, compared to 7.5% in 1891

By The Numbers

100,000

Current signature requirement for popular initiatives

2026

Planned implementation year for e-ID

They Said

"Popular initiatives could become even more popular"
— Mark Balsiger, Political Analyst

"Whoever has a lot of data has real gold"
— Mark Balsiger

Swiss Democracy Goes Digital

The Path to E-Collecting

Potential Impact and Concerns

Political Implications

Future Outlook

Sources & References

Could digital collection of signatures lead to more initiatives in Switzerland?

SWI swissinfo.ch