Interview with the presidents of the National Council and of the Council of States

What priority have you set for your year as president?
The motto of my presidential year is ‘Transcending boundaries’. Good politics thrives on listening to people who do not share the same opinion. Our views and experiences should not end at our own garden fence. What is unfamiliar to me should broaden my horizons!

What inspired you to enter politics?
I have always been interested in politics because it is through politics that we negotiate and shape the way in which we live side-by-side in peace and prosperity. So politics also has a lot to do with who I am. I ended up in parliamentary politics because I relish the lively debates.

What priorities have you set for your year as president?
I would like to highlight urban Switzerland and its potential for social, economic, political and cultural innovation. More than three quarters of the population live in our cities and urban centres, and four out of five jobs are located there. I will also be focusing on equality.

How do you see Switzerland in 20 years?
Together with the EU, Switzerland is closely involved in shaping the future of our continent – with everything that makes us strong: direct democracy, federalism, the welfare state and humanitarian services. Thanks to our excellent universities and strong economy, we remain a world leader in innovation. The transition to renewable, domestic energies has been a success.