The Federal Council
The Federal Council governs Switzerland. Every year, one of its seven members assumes the role of President of the Swiss Confederation and represents the nation at various events. The Federal Council was established in 1848.
The seven members of the Federal Council
The Swiss government comprises the seven members of the Federal Council. The president is elected for a one-year term of office and is regarded during that time as ‘Primus inter pares’, or first among equals.
Federal Presidency
The president chairs the meetings of the Federal Council and may order precautionary measures in urgent situations. The role also comes with special representational duties.
The tasks
The Federal Council is the highest executive authority in the country. It comprises seven members, who are elected by the Federal Assembly. The Federal Council’s tasks are set out in the Federal Constitution.
Federal Council election, work location and income
Parliament elects the members of the Federal Council for a four-year term. Each member receives a clearly defined income and leads the department they work in. The Federal Council meets weekly at the Federal Palace in Bern.
Photographs and speeches
The Federal Council represents Switzerland at various events at home and abroad. This page provides access to official photos of and speeches by Federal Council members.
History of the Federal Council
The first Federal Assembly met in November 1848, elected the first Federal Council and made Bern the federal capital. With the adoption of the Federal Constitution in 1848, Switzerland became a modern federal state. The cantons were now presided over by a federal government and a federal parliament.