Expert Opinion on the Legal Framework for a Citizens’ Assembly in the Canton of Basel-Stadt
The published report examines the framework conditions for the institutional integration of a Citizens’ Assembly in the canton of Basel-Stadt. It explores how an innovative participatory tool can strengthen political inclusion in the canton of Basel-Stadt without competing with the established structures of representative and direct democracy.
The report examines the legal framework at the federal and cantonal levels for the statutory establishment of the Citizens’ Assembly in the Canton of Basel-Stadt. Furthermore, the authors of the report analyze the extent to which the Federal Constitution poses any obstacles, what legal bases already exist in the Canton of Basel-Stadt, and the required level of legislation.
The report concludes that the establishment of an institutionally embedded Citizens’ Assembly is legally permissible. However, its structure must comply with clear constitutional requirements.
The legal opinion was commissioned by the Swiss Nonprofit Society and financially supported by the Mercator Switzerland Foundation. The Foundation for Direct Democracy is a project partner.