The Federal Assembly of Switzerland is the legislative branch of the Swiss

Parliament, serving as the supreme authority of the country. Comprising two

chambers—the National Council and the Council of States

The Federal Assembly is responsible for enacting federal legislation, approving the
federal budget, and representing the interests of the Swiss cantons and citizens.

Composition:

Bicameral Structure:

The Federal Assembly follows a bicameral structure, consisting of two chambers: the
National Council and the Council of States. This structure reflects the federal nature
of the Swiss state and ensures representation for both the cantons (states) and the
Swiss population as a whole.

National Council:

The National Council, also known as the Lower House, is the larger chamber of the
Federal Assembly. It is composed of 200 members who are directly elected by Swiss
citizens through a system of proportional representation. The number of seats
allocated to each canton is determined by its population size, ensuring
representation based on demographic factors.

Members of the National Council are elected for four-year terms, and elections take
place every four years. The proportional representation system encourages a
diverse political landscape, with multiple political parties typically represented in the
National Council.

Council of States:
The Council of States, or Upper House, is the smaller chamber of the Federal
Assembly. It consists of 46 members, two from each canton, regardless of its size or
population, is represented by two members in the Council of States. This equal
representation ensures that smaller cantons have a voice in the federal legislative
process.

The Council of States acts as a chamber that safeguards the interests of the
cantons, reflecting the federal nature of the Swiss political system. It plays a crucial
role in balancing the influence of the more populous cantons represented in the
National Council.

Powers and Functions:

1. Legislative Powers: The Federal Assembly holds the primary responsibility for
legislating at the federal level. Both chambers participate in the legislative process,
and the passage of a federal law requires the approval of both the National Council
and the Council of States. The legislative powers include areas such as civil and
criminal law, taxation, foreign affairs, and defense.

The legislative process typically involves the proposal of legislation by individual

members, parliamentary committees, or the Federal Council (the executive branch).
After thorough debates and reviews in both chambers, a bill must receive majority
approval in both houses to become law.

2. Election of the Federal Council: The Federal Assembly plays a crucial role in
the election and oversight of the Federal Council, which serves as the collective
executive head of the Swiss government. The Federal Council consists of seven
members, and its composition reflects the political landscape of the country. The
Federal Assembly, in joint session, elects the Federal Council members.

The Federal Council holds executive powers, and its members are responsible for
specific federal departments. While the Federal Assembly elects the Federal
Council, each council member is individually accountable to both chambers.

3. Oversight and Control: The Federal Assembly exercises oversight and control
over the executive branch, ensuring accountability and transparency. It does so
through various mechanisms, including parliamentary inquiries, debates, and the
power to censure or dismiss the Federal Council. The ability to question and
scrutinize government actions is a crucial aspect of the Federal Assembly's role.

4. Financial Powers: The Federal Assembly holds significant control over the
federal budget and financial matters. It reviews and approves the federal budget
proposed by the Federal Council, determining the allocation of funds for various
government functions. This financial authority ensures that the legislative branch has
a say in the government's spending priorities.

5. Constitutional Amendments: The Federal Assembly plays a central role in the

amendment of the Swiss Constitution. A constitutional amendment requires the
approval of both the National Council and the Council of States, along with a majority
of Swiss citizens in a referendum. This process emphasizes the direct involvement of
the people in shaping the fundamental law of the land.

6. Representation of Cantonal Interests: The Council of States, with its equal

representation of cantons, serves as a platform for the protection of cantonal
interests. It provides a counterbalance to the proportional representation in the
National Council, ensuring that the concerns of smaller cantons are considered in
federal decision-making.

7. Federal Sessions and Committees: The Federal Assembly convenes in regular

sessions to address legislative matters, debate proposals, and make decisions.
Parliamentary committees, composed of members from both chambers, play a
crucial role in examining specific issues in detail and preparing recommendations for
the broader assembly.
8. Mediation Between Chambers: In the event of disagreements between the
National Council and the Council of States, the Federal Assembly acts as a mediator
to find compromises. This process is essential for maintaining harmony and
cooperation between the two chambers, fostering a collaborative approach to
legislation.

9. Direct Democracy: Swiss democracy is characterized by a high degree of direct

citizen involvement. The Federal Assembly plays a pivotal role in facilitating direct
democracy through referendums and initiatives. Citizens can challenge legislation
passed by the Federal Assembly through a referendum, and they can propose
changes to the constitution through popular initiatives.

Relationship with the Federal Council:

The Federal Assembly and the Federal Council together form the federal
government of Switzerland. While the Federal Council is responsible for executive
functions, the Federal Assembly holds the legislative authority. The relationship
between these two branches involves a separation of powers, checks and balances,
and a commitment to cooperative governance.

The Federal Assembly has the authority to approve the appointment of Federal
Council members, ensuring that the executive branch represents a broad consensus
among political parties.

Evolving Role:
The role of the Federal Assembly has evolved over time to address the changing
needs and challenges facing Switzerland. The assembly has adapted its functions to
incorporate new policy areas, technological advancements, and international
developments.

In conclusion, the Federal Assembly of Switzerland is a cornerstone of the country's

democratic governance. Comprising the National Council and the Council of States,
it plays a vital role in legislation, budget approval, oversight of the executive,
constitutional amendments, and international relations. The assembly's commitment
to consensus politics, representation of cantonal interests, and facilitation of direct
democracy contribute to Switzerland's reputation as a stable and participatory
democracy.