In 1911, the state of California adopted a system of direct democracy that its authors based on the Swiss system. A century later, Swiss initiative and referendum is considered a crucial part of that country's formula for efficient, consensus-based government. In California, however, initiative and referendum are considered leading culprits in turning the Golden State into a chaotic, ungovernable mess.

What happened?

UC Hastings College of the Law, the Swiss Confederation and the 2010 Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy invite you to a fascinating and fun panel discussion comparing the two places in the world - California and Switzerland - that have used direct democracy most.

We'll examine specific examples in Switzerland, including the recent vote to ban minarets, and from California, including Prop 8, as we seek to answer key questions. How have the similar systems of direct democracy grown and changed over the years? What are the relative strengths and merits of each system? What might California learn from the Swiss model?

Please join an international panel, including two visiting Swiss experts.

Please allow additional time to sign in with security. Lunch will be provided.

This panel event is a preview of the 2010 Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy, a free, public event being held in San Francisco July 31 through Aug. 4. More details at www.2010globalforum.com

This forum is co-sponsored by the Public Law Research Institute at UC Hastings College of the Law, the 2010 Global Forum on Modern Direct Democracy, and the New America Foundation. With generous support from the Swiss Confederation and the Consulate General of Switzerland in San Francisco as part of its U.S. - wide program ThinkSwiss-Brainstorm the Future.