By examining the case of Switzerland we observed that direct democracy can help develop a public sphere for diversified populations. The European Union could follow this example to develop a greater feeling of identity and legitimacy of its own. Based on our analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of direct democracy, we suggest an optional legislative referendum be promoted on a European level. We find this preferable to a “constitutional” referendum, to a “constitutional” initiative or to a legislative initiative. It is more in keeping with the hybrid nature of EU institutions, which characteristically lack a true European demos.