Tagged: Switzerland

According to Petsinclude, Switzerland is a federal republic, composed of 26 cantons, with the federal government being responsible for issues of common interest such as foreign affairs and defense. The Swiss constitution guarantees individual rights, including freedom of speech, freedom of assembly and equality before the law. The unicameral Parliament (Bundesrat) consists of 200 members elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms. It has legislative power to pass laws and can also impeach the President or other ministers if necessary. The President leads the Federal Council which includes members from both major political parties. The Council is responsible for formulating policy and executing laws passed by Parliament. The judiciary in Switzerland is independent from both executive and legislative branches, with its highest court being the Federal Supreme Court headed by a Chief Justice appointed by the Federal Assembly after consultation with an Advisory Council on Selection Matters. There are also several lower courts including Cantonal Courts, Administrative Courts and Labour Courts. The Federal Assembly also has some oversight over governmental activities through its committees which have special responsibilities such as finance and foreign affairs. The Federal Assembly can also initiate legislation independently of the government, although this is rare in practice. Switzerland is a neutral country and has an extensive history of peaceful foreign relations. It is a founding member of the United Nations, the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), and the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE). Switzerland is also a member of the Council of Europe, the World Trade Organization (WTO), and the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Switzerland’s foreign policy focuses on promoting human rights, democracy, and international law. The Swiss government works to protect vulnerable populations from conflict or natural disasters through its humanitarian aid efforts. Switzerland often sends diplomats to support diplomatic efforts in countries where conflict or instability threaten human rights or democracy. Switzerland is also active in global negotiations on issues such as climate change mitigation, arms control, nuclear non-proliferation, and disarmament. In addition to these activities related directly to foreign policy objectives and international security concerns, Switzerland works to promote economic development through its membership in organizations such as the World Bank Group and WTO. The Swiss government also contributes financially to organizations such as UNICEF and UNRWA that are dedicated to providing humanitarian assistance around the world. See relationshipsplus for Switzerland defense and foreign policy.