Swiss voters raise hands in centuries-old open-air election
Video. Thousands gathered in Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, to vote by raising hands in a centuries-old tradition, electing local leaders and deciding on key issues in a public square.
Updated: 27/04/2026 - 13:59 GMT+2
Thousands gathered in Appenzell Innerrhoden, Switzerland, to vote by raising hands in a centuries-old tradition, electing local leaders and deciding on key issues in a public square.
Thousands of voters gathered in the Swiss canton of Appenzell Innerrhoden to take part in the traditional Landsgemeinde, an open-air assembly dating back to the 15th century.
Participants voted by raising their hands in the town square to elect local leaders and decide on issues including police reform and infrastructure projects.
The event also featured processions and performances, with residents and tourists watching from surrounding buildings.
Angela Koller, the first woman to serve as Landammann, presided over the gathering, highlighting the enduring nature of this unique democratic practice.
