Tuesday 09.02.2010
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Cabinet room 26.05.2007 - 13:29

One for seven, seven for one

Switzerland could be the only country in the world where you can see the president travelling by train or taking an unaccompanied stroll through the streets of the capital.

Parlament 25.01.2010 - 10:25

The heart of Swiss politics

The Swiss parliament is where most important political decisions in Switzerland are taken, even if the last word on laws often lies with the people.

Federalism 14.12.2009 - 11:48

Precious principle of federalism

The state of Switzerland is based on the principle of federalism. Federalism in this case means that the member cantons retain a large degree of autonomy.

Direct democracy starts with the collection of signatures 09.05.2007 - 16:20

The people decide

In Switzerland, the people have the last word on fundamental policy issues.

Election posters vie for voters' attention 25.01.2010 - 10:01

A very stable political spectrum

The Swiss political landscape is distinguished above all by its stability. Four parties dominate and all have been represented in government for decades.

There are 26 full and half cantons 14.12.2009 - 11:55

Cantons

The majority of Switzerland's 26 cantons trace their roots back hundreds of years. Their fundamental autonomy has always been respected, and remains strong to this day.

The house of the Swiss Abroad in Obera, Argentina 14.12.2009 - 11:57

Scattered Swiss retain voting rights

Some 650,000 Swiss citizens live abroad. The number of Swiss expats is equivalent to the population of Switzerland's third largest canton.

Political Parties

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Highly controversial: Swiss vote in favour of minaret ban.

 

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