Bern, Switzerland's capital, is known for its frequent public votes. Residents often face a long list of proposals. A new reform aims to reduce this number by increasing the financial threshold for mandatory public referendums. Voters will decide on this change on November 30.
Key Takeaways
- Bern holds more local votes than any other Swiss city.
- The proposed reform raises the city parliament's spending limit from 7 million to 12 million Swiss francs.
- The city government's direct spending power would increase from 300,000 to 500,000 Swiss francs.
- Supporters believe fewer votes will improve voter engagement.
- Opponents argue it limits direct democracy.
Bern's Unique Voting Landscape
Bern stands out as the Swiss city with the most local referendums. This high frequency stems from a rule requiring public approval for any city project exceeding 7 million Swiss francs. This means citizens often vote on many issues at once.
On June 18, 2023, for example, Bernese voters faced an unprecedented 17 proposals. Twelve of these were on local matters. Such a volume presents a significant challenge for both the city administration and the voters themselves, who must thoroughly understand each issue.
Did You Know?
On June 18, 2023, Bernese citizens voted on 17 different proposals, with 12 of them being local matters. This highlights the city's high frequency of public referendums.
Proposed Financial Threshold Increase
The core of the upcoming reform is to raise the city parliament's financial authority. Currently, the parliament can approve projects up to 7 million Swiss francs without a public vote. The proposal seeks to increase this limit to 12 million Swiss francs.
This change would mean fewer projects automatically trigger a city-wide referendum. The initiative for this reform came from a parliamentary proposal, and now the Bernese electorate will make the final decision on November 30.
Increased Spending Power for City Government
Beyond the parliament's threshold, the city government itself would also gain more direct spending power. Currently, the government can approve expenditures up to 300,000 Swiss francs. The reform suggests increasing this amount to 500,000 Swiss francs.
The last time Bern adjusted these financial competencies was 25 years ago. Since then, the complexity of construction projects has grown. Factors like climate protection mandates and accessibility requirements often increase project costs, making the current 7 million franc limit more restrictive.
Comparison with Other Swiss Cities
Bern's current 7 million franc threshold is notably lower than in other major Swiss cities. This difference contributes to Bern's higher number of public votes.
- In Zurich, the public only votes on projects exceeding 20 million Swiss francs.
- Smaller cities like St. Gallen and Lucerne have a threshold of 15 million Swiss francs.
These higher limits in other cities result in fewer public referendums, streamlining decision-making for their respective parliaments and administrations.
Direct Democracy in Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for its system of direct democracy, where citizens have significant power to influence laws and policies through referendums and initiatives. While highly valued, the sheer volume of votes can sometimes lead to voter fatigue and lower engagement.
Arguments for and Against the Reform
The proposed reform has sparked debate within the city council and among the public. Supporters emphasize the need for efficiency and improved voter engagement.
"A few less votes would probably be better," stated SP City Councilor Chandru Somasundaram during the council debate. He argued that the increase would not restrict democracy. Instead, it could prevent voter fatigue, where citizens might approve proposals without adequate consideration due to the sheer volume.
The idea is that fewer, more significant votes would encourage deeper public engagement with each issue. This could lead to more informed decisions by the electorate.
Concerns About Limiting Direct Democracy
However, not everyone agrees with the proposed changes. Opponents voice concerns about potentially limiting direct democratic rights.
SVP City Councilor Alexander Feuz countered, "Direct democracy must not be restricted." He views the high number of votes as a necessary price for a robust democracy, asserting that a "self-emasculation" of citizen participation is not advisable. Feuz believes it is crucial for citizens to retain the ability to have a say in city affairs.
The debate centers on balancing efficient governance with the fundamental principle of direct citizen participation in key decisions.
Upcoming Vote and Other Proposals
On November 30, Bernese citizens will not only vote on this reform but also on six other communal proposals. This again highlights the frequency of public votes in the city.
The additional proposals include:
- Zoning plan change for the Gaswerk area
- Zoning plan change for Brückenkopf-West
- Land allocation for the Gaswerk area through building rights and associated credit
- Budget 2026
- Development plan for Weyermannshaus-West
- Extension of the lease agreement for the Welle 7 bicycle station
The outcome of the November 30 vote will determine the future landscape of public participation in Bern's financial decisions. It will show whether residents prioritize streamlining the process or maintaining the current level of direct democratic oversight.