Sports, streetlights, and small farms

Here are the stories we’re following the week of August 15.  Monday Switzerland’s system of direct democracy is recognised for its involvement of citizens in decision-making – whether it’s a big issue like asylum policy, or a seemingly minor one like installing streetlights in a 250-person town. The ability of citizens to have their say has left the Romansh-speaking commune of Surrein in the dark since 1977 – but that’s all about to change with the people’s latest vote. Tuesday Amid the dazzle of major sporting events like the Olympics, it’s easy to forget about the years of planning, steep costs and logistical feats involved in accommodating thousands of athletes and spectators. Using the experience of the Swiss capital Bern, which recently hosted the European Gymnastics Championships, we take a look at why cities jump at the chance to host sporting events – while risking ending up in the red. Wednesday Switzerland is one of the ...