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Swiss Politics For Complete Beginners 2nd Edition: A Comprehensive Guide to the Swiss Political System

Ken Follett

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Published in Swiss Politics For Complete Beginners 2nd Edition: How Things Work In This Strange Country Where You Can Happily Survive Without Knowing The Name Of But Where You Vote On Everything (ESSAI)

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Swiss Politics for Complete Beginners - 2nd edition: How things work in this strange country where you can happily survive without knowing the name of ... but where you vote on everything (ESSAI)

by Pierre Cormon

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Language	:	English
File size	:	2085 KB
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Print length	:	103 pages

Switzerland is a unique country with a long and rich history. It is also a country with a complex political system that can be difficult to understand for outsiders. This book is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of the Swiss political system, covering everything from the history of Switzerland to the current political landscape.

The History of Switzerland

Switzerland has a long and complex history. The country was founded in 1291 when three cantons (Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden) formed a defensive alliance. Over the centuries, Switzerland grew and expanded, and by the 19th century it had become a major European power. Switzerland remained neutral during both World Wars, and it has been a member of the United Nations since 1945.

The Swiss Political System

Switzerland is a federal republic. The country is divided into 26 cantons, each of which has its own government and laws. The federal government is responsible for matters of national importance, such as foreign policy, defense, and the economy. The cantons are responsible for matters of local importance, such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.

The Swiss parliament is bicameral, consisting of the National Council and the Council of States. The National Council is composed of 200 members, who are elected by proportional representation. The Council of States is composed of 46 members, two from each canton. The parliament is responsible for passing laws and overseeing the government.

The Swiss government is led by the Federal Council, which is composed of seven members. The Federal Council is responsible for implementing laws and representing Switzerland abroad. The President of the Swiss Confederation is the head of the Federal Council and is elected by parliament for a one-year term.

Swiss Democracy

Switzerland is a direct democracy, which means that the people have a direct say in how the country is run. The Swiss people have the right to vote on laws and constitutional amendments. They also have the right to propose new laws and constitutional amendments through the initiative and referendum process.

The initiative process allows Swiss citizens to propose new laws or constitutional amendments. If an initiative is signed by 100,000 Swiss citizens, it must be put to a vote. The referendum process allows Swiss citizens to vote on laws and constitutional amendments that have been passed by parliament. If a referendum is successful, the law or constitutional amendment is overturned.

Swiss Political Parties

There are a number of political parties in Switzerland. The largest party is the Swiss People's Party (SVP),which is a conservative party. Other major parties include the Social Democratic Party (SP),the Free Democratic Party (FDP),and the Green Party (GPS).

Swiss Referendums

Switzerland is known for its frequent referendums. In recent years, the Swiss people have voted on a wide range of issues, including same-sex marriage, immigration, and nuclear power. Referendums are a key part of the Swiss political system and allow the Swiss people to have a direct say in how the country is run.

Swiss Initiatives

The Swiss initiative process is another way for the Swiss people to have a direct say in how the country is run. Through the initiative process, Swiss citizens can propose new laws or constitutional amendments. If an initiative is signed by 100,000 Swiss citizens, it must be put to a vote.

Swiss politics is complex and fascinating. This book has provided a comprehensive overview of the Swiss political system, covering everything from the history of Switzerland to the current political landscape. This book is perfect for anyone who wants to learn more about Swiss politics, whether they are a student, a journalist, or a businessperson.