The Council of the Swiss Abroad says yes to more democratic elections

The delegates have approved a project for more direct elections. However, new electoral constituencies spark discussion, as does the Board's decision to hold the Congress only every four years. "It's the elephant in the room," says working group member Andreas Feller-Ryf about the project he is presenting to the delegates of the Council of the Swiss Abroad (CSA). Along with a group of younger members, he want a more democratic and direct election of the body that represents the Swiss Abroad from all around the world. It is an ambitious project. Until now, the CSA has been chosen indirectly: the members of associations elect their country delegates to the body. Feller-Ryf addresses the issue of Swiss clubs and associations directly; it is the second elephant in the room. These are dwindling and there are fears of a loss of power within the clubs as a result of a democratic election. But Feller-Ryf also sees opportunities: "They are part of the direct election process," he says. "We ...