People in Lucerne, Switzerland. Editorial credit: mezzotint / Shutterstock.com

Switzerland

The political system of Switzerland is characterized by decentralization and direct democracy. The multilingual state is typically governed by a broad coalition including members from four of the largest parliamentary parties. Civil liberties are generally respected in the country, though laws and policies adopted in recent years have reflected a growing wariness of immigration and minority groups, which face societal and systemic discrimination.

Iranian people in Izmir protest the death of Mahsa Amini by the morality police in Iran.

Freedom in the World — Switzerland Country Report

Switzerland is rated Free in Freedom in the World 2023, Freedom House's annual study of political rights and civil liberties worldwide.