As an expert in political systems, I can provide an insightful analysis on the practice of direct democracy across the globe. Direct democracy, where citizens have the opportunity to vote directly on policy issues, is a fascinating subject that has been a topic of debate for centuries. It stands in contrast to representative democracy, where elected officials make decisions on behalf of the people. Step 1: English Answer Direct democracy is a form of government where citizens have the power to vote on policy decisions directly, without intermediaries. It's a system that allows for a more immediate and personal form of participation in the political process. While it's true that most Western countries have adopted representative systems, there are instances where elements of direct democracy are practiced. Switzerland is indeed a prominent example of a country that incorporates direct democracy into its political framework. At the municipal, cantonal, and federal levels, Swiss citizens have the right to propose changes to the constitution and to challenge legislation through a process known as referenda. This allows them to have a more direct influence on the laws and policies that govern their lives. In Switzerland, if a certain number of citizens (currently 100,000 within 18 months) support a proposal, a nationwide vote can be triggered. This process is known as popular initiative. Additionally, any law passed by the parliament can be challenged by the citizens through a referendum if they can gather the required number of signatures within a certain timeframe. This is a powerful tool that gives citizens the ability to effectively veto laws they disagree with. Beyond Switzerland, there are other countries and regions that have adopted certain aspects of direct democracy, although perhaps not to the same extent. For instance: - California, USA, is known for its frequent use of ballot propositions, allowing citizens to vote directly on state laws and policies. - Italy has provisions for referendums at both the national and regional levels. - Some Canadian provinces allow for certain types of referendums, particularly on constitutional matters. - In the European Union, there is a fledgling form of direct democracy through the European Citizens' Initiative, which allows citizens to propose legislation at the EU level if a certain number of signatures from different member states are collected. It's important to note that direct democracy is not without its challenges. Critics argue that it can lead to a tyranny of the majority, where minority rights may be overlooked. There are also concerns about the quality of decision-making when citizens vote on complex issues without the benefit of in-depth expertise. Despite these concerns, the practice of direct democracy offers a valuable check on the power of elected officials and can lead to a more engaged and informed citizenry. It serves as a reminder that the ultimate source of political power lies with the people. Step 2: Divider read more >>

Most western countries have representative systems. Switzerland is a rare example of a country with instruments of direct democracy (at the levels of the municipalities, cantons, and federal state). Citizens have more power than in a representative democracy.read more >>