Palaver, Palaver (1990)

1989 marked an unprecedented event in modern history, it was the first time a country put to the vote whether or not it wanted an army. While celebrations for the 50-year commemoration of the outbreak of World War II are well under way, a more liberal Swiss element collects thousands of signatures to support the motion to disband the Swiss army. Stirring speeches thanking halls of old veterans for their efforts to safeguard Switzerland from Hitler are juxtaposed with youth rallies and arguments from the left about the glorification of war and the social and financial burdens of an army. The film, documenting the intense debate that raged amongst the Swiss public in the months leading up to the referendum, asks the question: Is an army the precondition of freedom?