Federal Council risks first French-speaking deficit since 1966
Get European news in your inbox daily
A short daily digest of the whole continent — or just the countries you care about.
Check your email. We've sent a confirmation link — click it to complete your subscription.
A significant political discussion has emerged regarding the linguistic balance within the Federal Council, particularly as President Guy Parmelin, a French-speaking member, is set to resign at the end of 2026. Concerns are being raised about the potential for the council to have only one representative from the French-speaking region, a situation not seen since 1966.
Adding to the national news, a cyberattack has compromised a software supplier for the federal administration, leading to the theft of sensitive data. Meanwhile, a new report highlights that one-third of Switzerland's animal and plant species are threatened, although it also points to positive developments in conservation efforts.
Other domestic stories include an assessment of Swiss political parties one year before national elections, a long-standing building dispute in Gstaad deemed 'too ugly' for the resort, and a journalist admitting an error in a television appearance. The national football team is also making headlines, nearing the top ten in FIFA rankings.