Institutional and social frameworks

A strong and balanced institutional framework is founded on effective checks and balances, both formal – in the shape of the executive, legislature and judiciary – and informal, as provided by political parties, the media and civil society, for example. These institutions keep each other in check, prevent abuses of power and guard against authoritarian tendencies and polarisation. When their independence is threatened, it is often an early sign that democracy is under attack. To address this challenge, Switzerland works on a number of strategic fronts to strengthen institutional and social frameworks.

Switzerland supports innovative initiatives that safeguard a pluralistic, independent and secure media environment, while combating disinformation and the manipulation of information systems. In partnership with organisations such as the International Fund for Public Interest Media, it supports local media and enhances civic information spaces. It also works to strengthen the international legal framework and exploit the opportunities offered by new technologies, in order to enrich democratic culture and bolster resilience against authoritarianism. 

Switzerland also focuses on the transparency and credibility of electoral processes and on strengthening parliaments. It is committed to equal participation of women in elections, and fosters the participation of minorities in political processes. It supports independent electoral authorities and promotes codes of conduct designed to prevent polarising rhetoric. As part of its diplomacy for democracy, Switzerland also participates in international election observation missions and works with foreign parliaments to build their legislative, budgetary and communication capacities.

The transfer of powers from central government to subnational entities promotes local governance, which is vital for democratic resilience. Drawing on its own experience as a federal state, Switzerland supports reforms aimed at establishing decentralised structures that are efficient, transparent and tailored to the local context.

Corruption distorts collective decision-making and undermines the rule of law. To counter such abuses, Switzerland supports prevention initiatives and builds the capacities of oversight bodies. It participates in international partnerships aimed at better coordinating the recovery of illicitly acquired assets and the monitoring of illicit financial flows. As part of its multilateral cooperation, Switzerland is involved in multilateral conventions and forums such as the UN, the G20, the OECD and the Council of Europe.

Public debate and participatory processes foster democratic culture and boost trust in its values, processes and institutions. By supporting the implementation of innovative models to promote deliberation and participation, Switzerland aims to reduce polarisation and strengthen the legitimacy of decisions, while ensuring the inclusion of traditionally under-represented groups.

Democracy education bolsters political participation and long-term trust in the political and social system. Switzerland supports this trust-building process in a number of partner countries by promoting civic education and providing opportunities for informal debate and dialogue, with an emphasis on media skills. These are essential for assessing information critically, particularly in the face of disinformation strategies.

Switzerland has an overarching strategy to strengthen institutional and social frameworks, in synergy with its diplomacy for democracy. Together, these fields of action serve to safeguard and promote an inclusive form of democracy capable of withstanding authoritarian pressures.