'Civic Duty Initiative' Switzerland Federal Referendum 30 November 2025 - Interview with ...

Описание: Redefining Civic Duty: Noémie Roten and Switzerland's Referendum on Civic Duty Initiative

Noémi Roten, Head of the Initiative Committee and Managing Director of the Citizen Service Association, leads a transformative proposal: the Civic Duty Initiative. Traditionally, Swiss men have faced military service obligations, with limited civilian alternatives. This new initiative proposes a shift to include all young citizens, irrespective of gender, in a broader range of services, including military, civilian, and disaster response. The initiative emerges after a 12-year campaign, advocating a redefinition of national security to involve everyone. Despite opposition from government and parts of society, Roten and her team have surpassed the necessary signatures for a national vote. Their vision aims for societal cohesion and empowerment. Critics point to potential costs and traditional gender roles. Estimates place the financial burden at 1 billion francs annually. However, Roten argues that the benefits, as evidenced by studies in Austria, outweigh these costs. She believes in dismantling stereotypes to achieve equal recognition and compensation for national service. Irrespective of the vote's outcome, Roten remains committed to the dialogue on civic duty and gender equality. She draws inspiration from past societal changes, such as women’s voting rights, and foresees continued progress. The Civic Duty Initiative stands as a proposal for shared responsibilities and a broader security outlook, with Roten advocating for a society ready to embrace new roles and opportunities.

Show Notes:

About the Civic Duty Initative Referendum The Civic Duty Initative Campaign The Other Referendum: Initiative For A Future' Interview with Rachele Betschart from JUSO About Neighbourhood News:

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