In Switzerland, Federal Councilors are elected by both chambers of the Federal Assembly in a secret ballot. Members of Parliament vote out of sight of the public—and of their own parties. Should their choices be made public?
In his column, former Federal Councilor Pascal Couchepin shares a book that left a lasting impression on him. This month, it’s an essay by Lucien Jaume on the true nature of Italian fascism.
In my experience, it’s really the penultimate fall session under the federal dome that truly kicks off the election campaign. This final stage of the legislative session begins on October 24, 2027. It’s an opportunity to take stock of the forces at play. Let’s start with the front-runner: the Swiss People’s Party (SVP), which secured more than 27% of the vote in 2023. Based on the cantonal elections, the party has the wind at its back with its key issues: immigration, security, sovereignty, and the ability to tap into current events.
In Switzerland, collecting 100,000 signatures allows for the launch of a popular initiative at the federal level, but only to amend the Constitution. Laws are not subject to this process. Should this be changed? A debate between two experts.
Historian Marc Lazar offers a rigorous analysis of the movements that are shaking up contemporary democracies. His latest essay, in particular, helps us understand what distinguishes them from the authoritarian regimes of the 20th century.
Mark Lilla is considered one of the leading contemporary historians of ideas. From the rise of identity politics to the limits of rationalism, this American scholar has spent several decades examining the intellectual forces shaping the West.
Founded during the U.S. crackdown on Swiss banks, the association has been defending legal certainty for the past fifteen years. Its co-founder, Jean-Daniel Balet, is now warning of what he sees as threats to the Swiss model.
According to the founder of the eponymous group, Switzerland is becoming bogged down in bureaucracy, losing its work ethic, and undermining its neutrality. An interview with this leading figure in the French-speaking Swiss real estate sector, who calls for a return to high standards, entrepreneurship, and a sense of responsibility.
In his column, former Federal Councilor Pascal Couchepin shares a book that left a lasting impression on him. This month, it’s an essay by Marcel Gauchet on democracies.
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