Who runs Switzerland?
Seven people, together: the Federal Council. Parliament elects its seven members for four years, and each December it elects one of them as President of the Confederation for one year, first among equals.
Ep. 14 · This is Ueli · 61 seconds. Watch
The real rule
Why the Swiss laugh, and what it means if you're new here.
Switzerland has no single leader: seven Federal Councillors govern together, and the presidency rotates every year among them. That is why few people abroad can name the Swiss president. As a newcomer, know that big decisions come from the Federal Council as a group, and often from the voters themselves.
Blüemli's verdict: Ding. True. Parliament elects the seven for four years. The president: for one year.
BUNDESRAT: literally: “federal council”; really: the seven who run the country Ueli's Word
Be like Ueli. Complain to all seven. Politely.
Learn more: Swiss history in 23 minutes
The rule, explained
Switzerland has no single head of government. It is run by the Federal Council, the Bundesrat: seven members who decide together. The United Federal Assembly, both chambers of Parliament, elects or re-elects them every four years. Each year in December, Parliament elects one of the seven as President of the Swiss Confederation for a twelve-month term. The president chairs the meetings and represents the country, but is regarded as first among equals. So if you want to complain to the president, you might as well write to all seven.
Sources: admin.ch, Federal Council election; aboutswitzerland.eda.admin.ch, The Federal Council
Questions people ask
Who is the head of government in Switzerland?
There is none. The seven-member Federal Council governs together; the president is first among equals for one year.
How long is the Swiss president in office?
One year. Parliament elects the president from the seven Federal Councillors each December.
More episodes
Previous: Did Switzerland really vote on cow horns? Next: Swiss health insurance: when can you switch?