The Federal Assembly chooses one member from amongst the councilors to the rank of President for a period of one year.
i. Based on the principle of rotation
ii. His position is not exalted or superior to his colleagues
iii. Acts as Chairman of the Council
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iv. Casts his vote in case of a tie Functions of the Federal Council
1. To conduct the affairs of the state with the provisions of the Constitution.
2. To supervise the ‘guarantee’ of constitutions of the Cantons.
3. To initiate the legislation process.
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4. To reply to Federal Assembly on matters of given debate under right of interpellation.
5. To issue direction for execution of law.
6. To supervise the military affairs of the confederation.
7. To prepare budget.
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8. To submit to the Assembly, a report of its working.
9. To maintain peace and order.
10. To conduct foreign relations and ensure neutrality and independence.
11. To appoint federal officials.
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12. To supervise the branches of administration in Cantons. Position of Federal Council
The executive in Switzerland is not an independent or co-ordinate branch of government. It is neither Parliamentary nor Presidential type. Rather there exists an executive which is a collegial body of seven members. According to Bryce it “stands outside party, is not chosen to do party work, does not determine party policy, yet is not wholly hour some party colour.” It reflects the presence all the major political parties.
Promotes mutual confidence and cooperation
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i. It represents a government of all by all and for all it
ii. Provides political stability
iii. Promotes public spirit
In recent times, there has been a continuous within the power of Council vis-a-vis the Assembly. The world wide trend toward centralization has influenced the Swiss executive as well. It has what Andre Siegfied calls “gradually came to wield a quasi-absolute power”.
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The Federal Assembly:
There exists a bicameral legislature in Switzerland. The two chambers include Council of States and the National Council.
Supremacy: Article 71 provides “subject to the rights of the people and of the Cantons. The Supreme power of the Confederation shall be exercised by the Federal Assembly.
However, the voters of Switzerland are empowered with the weapon of referendum to Veto Bill.
i. Represents the units of Confederation
ii. Two members are drawn from Cantons and one from half canton
iii. Total Members are 46
iv. Modalities of election, tenure, allowances of members are decided by the Cantons itself
v. Cantons follow the methods of both; direct and indirect elections.