Too Violent Campaign on '10 Million Swiss' Initiative Prompts Greens to Defend Democracy

The Swiss Green Party is initiating a parliamentary push to safeguard democratic discourse following a contentious campaign against the "No to 10 Million Swiss" initiative. The party expresses deep concern over the escalating harshness of political debate, fearing it could undermine democratic processes in future crucial discussions.

Greens' representatives, including Greta Gysin, Delphine Klopfenstein Broggini, and Raphaël Mahaim, are introducing seven parliamentary interventions this week. Mahaim highlighted the recent campaign as a "revealer" of worrying trends. He voiced particular apprehension about upcoming debates on "Bilateral III" and the 2027 federal elections, warning that without establishing boundaries now, such phenomena risk becoming more prevalent.

The party's move reflects a broader unease about the health of political debate in Switzerland. By seeking to implement new limits, the Greens aim to curb aggressive campaign tactics and ensure that future democratic processes remain constructive and respectful. This initiative has reportedly found support even within the ranks of the Liberal Party (PLR), suggesting a wider recognition of the need to address the issue.

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this campaign has been a revealer. What worries me most is what awaits us during the campaign on Bilateral III or the federal elections of 2027. If we don't set certain limits now, we risk seeing these phenomena grow further.