For 2018, the Federal Council reveals itself and comes to life

News Mondays - Nicolas Jutzet

The previous one was hierarchical, with a hint of a movie poster. Pinned by the NZZ which was titled « The Smiling Mafia »—while trying to figure out the name of the movie or TV show advertised on the poster—she exuded a coolness and a sense of class that were, in the end, quite unusual for a Swiss woman who sees herself as hardworking, serious, yet cheerful and open.".

The one meant to represent the Federal Council in 2018 belongs in a completely different category. It features Federal Councilors who are laughing, charming, or caught off guard, with their hands in their pockets. There’s a sense of playfulness in the air. Led by Alain Berset, who seems perfectly at ease in his role as the group’s leader with his mischievous smile, the Federal Council and the Federal Chancellor, Walter Thurnherr, are reconnecting with a much more authentic reflection of the Swiss spirit. A country governed with a firm hand and talent, by people who—much like those captured in photos from traditional early-summer school field trips—resemble us.

It’s worth noting the innovation—albeit a modest one—that accompanies the photo. It’s animated—or at least its background is. This change alone won’t be enough to make Switzerland a Start-up Nation, but it is to be commended for the idea behind it. Switzerland is changing, and the world with it. Meanwhile, in the face of the storm, the government must remain unflinching, sovereign, and in control of its emotions to weather the adversity. Pessimists and petty-minded people will say that the liveliness in the background contrasts with—and highlights—the inaction of the wise, particularly on the European issue or paternity leave.

It’s also interesting to take a closer look at the details of the photo. Between a flying saucer that seems to be keeping watch over the Federal Palace (could it be that the political class is in another world?), the wind turbines, and the benevolent cow that appears to be eyeing the local man, Guy Parmelin, there are many stories to be told. The ecological impact—wind turbines, bike paths, public transportation, snow—and a return to nature—symbolized by the prominent presence of animals, not all of which are identifiable…—emerge as the photograph’s main themes. Could this be a clue to the new president’s priorities for his presidential year?

Whether it’s visually dynamic or not, the government team’s year is sure to be eventful.

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Photo credit: © Swiss Federal Chancellery