governs the principles and methods by which the Swiss Abroad can exercise their voting rights. The provisions of the Federal Act on Political Rights apply subsidiarily. Swiss Abroad who hold the right to vote must nonetheless inform the competent consulate of their intention to exercise that right. Social assistance Swiss Abroad encountering hardship can apply for social assistance, and their applications will be examined on an individual basis. If they are successful, the Confederation will provide social assistance abroad or help the persons concerned return to Switzerland. Consular protection The Swiss Abroad Act covers how consular protection is granted to Swiss nationals abroad, including providing assistance in the event of a crisis or catastrophe. Since individual responsibility prevails, there is no right to consular protection that applies subsidiarily. Celebrating the Act’s tenth anniversary... what has it changed in practice? For Filippo Lombardi, the change has been very positive. The Act continues to be highly appreciated and serves those it concerns well. It is an instrument of democracy that, over the course of ten years, has proven its worth and shown it is still relevant today. No amendments to the Act have proven necessary so far, which illustrates its effectiveness perfectly. His only regret is that Swiss schools are not covered by the law, meaning they are less protected. Overall, this concentration into a single law has reinforced and promoted the defence of the interests of the Swiss Abroad. The camp of the Swiss Abroad still needs defending, however, in a world that has become more complex, and in a Switzerland that has become more complex, as we all face an uncertain future. 29 Swiss Review / December 2025 / No.5
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