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.
Simonetta Sommaruga (SP/BE) has been a federal councillor since 2010. Simonetta Sommaruga heads the Federal Department of the Environment, Transport, Energy and Communications (DETEC). Prior to that, she headed the Federal Department of Justice and Police (FDJP).
Viola Amherd (CVP/VS) has been a federal councillor since 2019. Viola Amherd heads the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
Ueli Maurer (SVP/ZH) has been a federal councillor since 2009. Ueli Maurer has headed the Federal Department of Finance (FDF) since 2016. Prior to that, he headed the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
Guy Parmelin (SVP/VD) has been a federal councillor since 2016. Guy Parmelin heads the Federal Department of Economic Affairs. Prior to that he headed the Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
