Concordance in crisis

The polarization and decline of traditional governing parties are putting pressure on the Swiss government system. Criticism of the concordance is growing louder. The question arises whether a Federal Council without a head of government and a government program is still viable for the future. The author delves into the stability-oriented government system of Switzerland and traces its history from its beginnings through its flourishing to its current crisis. It becomes evident how deeply the principles of power-sharing and limitation are embedded in Switzerland. These principles have contributed to a significant national debt, the development of an efficient citizen-centered state, and a high level of government trust. The author presents three reform approaches that could revitalize the concordance under changed conditions, rather than recklessly relying on political success.