Landsgemeinden

Landsgemeinden are a form of direct democracy practiced in some Swiss cantons. It refers to an open-air assembly where citizens gather to vote on laws and elect officials. The assembly is typically held annually in a public square. Voting is done by a show of hands, with voters raising their swords or other designated markers to signify their approval or rejection. Historically, the Landsgemeinden were the primary legislative bodies in many Swiss communities.

Today, Landsgemeinden are still practiced in a few cantons, notably Appenzell Innerrhoden and Glarus. The practice has evolved over time, and in some cases, attendance is limited to eligible voters, and the proceedings are managed in a more structured manner than in the past. The Landsgemeinde is seen as a significant symbol of Swiss democratic tradition and a tangible connection to the country's history of popular sovereignty. It represents a direct form of citizen participation in governance, distinct from representative democracy. The age-old tradition continues to be a unique feature of Swiss political life.