Swiss voters are going to polls to vote on a record nine different policy initiatives
Published:
18 May 2003 y., Sunday
Voting to approve or challenge new legislation has a long tradition in Switzerland, where the people are allowed the last word on government policy.
But this time the sheer number of issues to be decided has raised questions over whether the system really is functioning as it should. The Swiss are deeply attached to their system of direct democracy - no-one would ever think of abandoning it. But Sunday's vote is likely to try the patience of many citizens.
The nine issues to be decided include two separate proposals to abolish nuclear power - the only difference is the timescale.
There is an extremely complicated law on changing the way health care is financed - many voters confess they do not understand this one at all.
Then there is a proposal to ban cars throughout the country for four days each year, and a demand for more apprenticeship places.
There is a government bill, already approved by parliament, to modernise and reduce the Swiss army.
Šaltinis:
BBC News
Copying, publishing, announcing any information from the News.lt portal without written permission of News.lt editorial office is prohibited.
The most popular articles
Forget burning bras, the latest in "women's liberation" is a product making a comeback in Japan that makers claim allows women to ditch tight-fitting underwear - loincloths.
more »
We revel in the ways in which mobile phones and wireless internet make our lives easier.
more »
For almost a decade a series of laws have protected Europe's workers from discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sexuality or religious beliefs.
more »
Earth Hour 2009 is an opportunity for hundreds of millions of people all around the world to switch off their lights as a demonstration, a symbolic action to show to governments we need you to take action on climate change.
more »
From 4-7 June millions of people will have their chance to vote in the European Parliament elections.
more »
One town in Poland has just started a "rent-a-grandparent" programme.
more »
A key component of the EU's internal market for goods and services is the possibility of buying and selling across Europe.
more »
Polish farmers are intimidated by the mysterious predator.
more »
The costs of fossil fuels are increasing and global warming is accelerating.
more »
According to archaeologists, the mummy of a 50-year-old woman, discovered on San Lorenzo island, was most likely an elite member of the Pre-Incan Ichma culture.
more »