Amherd resigns from Federal Council

Thursday, 16 January 2025 06:30

There’s a vacancy in the Federal Council after the defence minister Viola Amherd announced she’s resigning.

The 62-year-old has been part of the government since 2019.

There’d been speculation that Amherd would step down for some time.

It makes her six-year term shorter than average – it’s common to stay a member of government for more than 10 years.

She’ll remain in her post until her successor is selected.

That’s done by parliament who will be voting on nominations in the spring session which starts in March.

More from Bitesize News

We're all getting used to AI

Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Gemini are rapidly changing how people in Switzerland use the internet.
Initiative to limit frontalier jobs rejected by State Council

An initiative launched by the Geneva Citizens Movement to limit state jobs to those who live in the canton has been partially invalidated by the State Council.
New rules for social media plannned

Social media is about to get a lot less lawless in Switzerland.
Pâquis to get a facelift

The City of Geneva has given the green light to greening the Pâquis district.
New overnight train from Basel to Malmö

A new direct night train from Basel to the Swedish city of Malmö is set to roll out in mid-April 2026, if Parliament approves the budget.
Winter tyres compulsory in France from Saturday

From Saturday, winter tyres are compulsory in the neighbouring French departments.