Such an event carried significant importance this past week.
In a series of significant decisions, the Swiss Council of States has been making strides in promoting inclusivity and addressing climate change.
Inclusive Politics
The Council of States has voted to amend Article 136 of the Federal Constitution, allowing cognitively disabled citizens to vote. This decision marks a crucial step towards universal suffrage for people with disabilities. The parliament's decision is backed by political bodies and supported by disability advocacy groups, such as Inclusion Handicap, a leading umbrella organization for people with disabilities in Switzerland.
The current regulation excluding 16,000 people with cognitive impairments from political rights contradicts the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. Several cantons, including Zurich, Zug, and Solothurn, are also working on a similar solution. The Disability Session 2023 demonstrated that people with disabilities want to participate in Swiss politics.
Climate Action
On the climate front, Switzerland aims to reduce 34 million tons of CO2 abroad by 2030 to meet the Paris climate goal. However, only 0.04% of the necessary CO2 compensations abroad have been achieved so far. The Federal Council wants compensations abroad to continue to play a big role in Swiss climate policy until 2040, but the current approach is failing.
In response to the US's 39% tariffs on Swiss products, the Federal Council is considering allowing chlorine-treated chickens to be imported into Switzerland. This proposal has caused concern among poultry producers, farmers, and consumer organizations, as chemically treated poultry has been a taboo in Switzerland and neighboring countries. The EU has categorically excluded the approval of chlorine chickens.
Public Transport Funding
The Council of States has also shown its commitment to sustainable transportation. It wants to provide around 3.5 billion francs for public transport between 2026 and 2028, which is 160 million more than the Federal Council requested. This funding will contribute to making public transportation more accessible and environmentally friendly.
Looking Forward
The Federal Council must now implement the decision to allow voting rights for people with disabilities, which will require a constitutional amendment and a referendum. For more information about these decisions and other important news from Switzerland, subscribe to our weekly newsletter, "That Was Really Important." Stay informed and engaged in the democratic process and the climate conversation.
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