“Sustainable promotion of democracy with a special emphasis on citizen-oriented, participatory and direct-democratic developments worldwide”.
For a decade, the Swiss Democracy Foundation has been implementing projects and working with partners to protect and further develop democracy, with a particular focus on citizen participation, tolerance towards minorities, and international understanding.
The focus is on building bridges between the comprehensive democratic practices of small Switzerland and the growing demand for democracy promotion in the wider world. The foundation works in accordance with the Swiss Federal Constitution, which has declared the "promotion of democracy worldwide" to be a task for the state and society.
Around the world, we are observing how societies with varying degrees of democracy are dealing with the current global crises. In times of conflict, pandemics, and climate emergency, careful leadership, transparency, and unbiased scientific advice are crucial. Trust between citizens, authorities, and politicians is essential.
This can best be achieved when people are aware of their civil rights and freedoms and can rely on solid social security. Strong democratic societies are better prepared for this, while governments with little trust often resort to authoritarian and populist approaches.
This sets out the most important task of the Swiss Democracy Foundation: we invest in building democratic trust capital.
Would you like to support our work? We rely on your generous support and commitment.
Current Activities
Anniversary video of the swiss democracy foundation invites you to get involved
This spring, the Swiss Democracy Foundation is celebrating its tenth anniversary. At an anniversary conference held in Lucerne, the foundation's birthplace, experts from government and academia discussed the "future of democracy promotion" and the role the foundation can play in this endeavour. Interested and committed individuals are invited to join the newly formed circle of friends and patrons.
ANSWERS FROM THE ANNIVERSARY CONFERENCE IN LUCERNE
WELCOME TO THE NEW FRIENDS & PATRONS CIRCLE
WeLCOME TO THE 2026 GLOBAL FORUM IN GABORONE/BOTSWANA
The 13th Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy will take place from October 7 to 10, 2026 in the Botswana capital of Gaborone. This will make the forum even more global and explore topics such as the democratic use of raw materials and bridging traditional and modern forms of direct democracy.