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- Bern - The Swiss Federal Council elected Viola Amherd, a member of the center-right FDP.The Liberals, as President of the Swiss Confederation for 2026 during it's meeting on...
- Viola amherd is a Swiss politician representing the canton of Uri.
- Prior to her election to the Federal Council, Amherd served as a National Councillor for Uri from 2005 to 2023.
Switzerland’s Federal Council Elects Viola Amherd as President for 2026
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Bern – The Swiss Federal Council elected Viola Amherd, a member of the center-right FDP.The Liberals, as President of the Swiss Confederation for 2026 during it’s meeting on December 6, 2023. She will assume the role on January 1,2026,succeeding current President Karin Keller-Sutter.
Viola Amherd: Background and Political career
Viola amherd is a Swiss politician representing the canton of Uri. She was elected to the Federal Council on December 6, 2023, succeeding Ueli Maurer. Her official profile on the Swiss government website details her responsibilities as the Head of the Federal Department of Defense, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS).
Prior to her election to the Federal Council, Amherd served as a National Councillor for Uri from 2005 to 2023. She holds a degree in law from the University of Zurich and worked as a lawyer before entering politics. She is known for her pragmatic approach and focus on security policy.
The Role of the swiss President
The swiss presidency is a primarily representative role. Switzerland operates under a collegial government system, meaning decisions are made collectively by the seven-member Federal Council. The President chairs Federal Council meetings and represents Switzerland abroad, but does not have any more power than the other six Federal Councillors. The presidency rotates annually among the federal councillors, based on seniority. The Swiss Confederation’s website provides a detailed explanation of the Federal Council’s structure and functions.
Key Responsibilities and Priorities for 2026
As President, Amherd will focus on strengthening Switzerland’s security and resilience, particularly in light of the evolving geopolitical landscape. She has emphasized the importance of maintaining Switzerland’s neutrality while actively contributing to international peace and security. A key priority will be modernizing the Swiss Armed Forces and enhancing civil protection measures.
In a press release issued by the Swiss Federal Council on December 6, 2023, amherd stated, “I am honoured to be entrusted with the office of President. I will work tirelessly to ensure that Switzerland remains a secure, prosperous, and innovative country.”
- Federal Council (Bundesrat): The collective executive body of Switzerland.
- Federal Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sport (DDPS): The government department led by Viola Amherd.
- FDP.The Liberals (FDP): The political party Viola Amherd represents.
- karin Keller-Sutter: The current President of the Swiss Confederation in 2024. Her official profile.
- Ueli Maurer: Former Federal Councillor succeeded by Viola Amherd.