Fines for non-voters to increase voter turnout.
In Switzerland, we have the privilege to vote and participate in elections. Nevertheless, more than half of eligible voters regularly do not use this opportunity. The initiative aims to increase voter turnout through a moderate fine for unjustified non-participation, following the proven model of compulsory voting with symbolic sanctions, as has long existed in the canton of Schaffhausen.
In Switzerland, we have the privilege to vote and participate in elections. Nevertheless, more than half of eligible voters regularly do not use this opportunity. The initiative aims to increase voter turnout through a moderate fine for unjustified non-participation, following the proven model of compulsory voting with symbolic sanctions, as has long existed in the canton of Schaffhausen.
Problem
- The official voter turnout in federal votes and elections is often below 50% bas…: The official voter turnout in federal votes and elections is often below 50% based on the total population.
- Voter turnout is lower than one might think: after excluding children and foreig…: Voter turnout is lower than one might think: after excluding children and foreigners, the majority (50.1%) often represents only about 15% of the population with current participation. A small group t…
- Threatening fines probably does not bring uninformed citizens to the polls. Besi…: Threatening fines probably does not bring uninformed citizens to the polls. Besides, the fine would probably have to be hefty to have an effect.
Solution
- Introduction of a small, symbolic fine for non-voters, following the example of …: Introduction of a small, symbolic fine for non-voters, following the example of the canton of Schaffhausen.
- Anyone who returns the voting or election envelope unfilled but on time is consi…: Anyone who returns the voting or election envelope unfilled but on time is considered to have consciously abstained and will not be fined. This preserves the negative freedom to vote (right to abstain…
- The collected steering levy is used to promote democracy: education and support …: The collected steering levy is used to promote democracy: education and support of institutions and associations (such as Smartvote).
- Revenue from fines is earmarked for investment in political (education). [Idea b…: Revenue from fines is earmarked for investment in political (education). [Idea by Michael Elsner]
- No fines for non‑voters! Active voters can, however, claim tax deductions. Exact…: No fines for non‑voters! Active voters can, however, claim tax deductions. Exact amount to be defined.
Benefit
- Empirical experiences from the canton of Schaffhausen show that even small sanct…: Empirical experiences from the canton of Schaffhausen show that even small sanctions can measurably increase participation.
- Higher participation improves the representativeness of political decisions and …: Higher participation improves the representativeness of political decisions and strengthens their democratic legitimacy.