Council of States (Switzerland)

The Council of States is the upper chamber of Switzerland's federal legislature, representing the country’s 26 cantons. Each canton, regardless of population, elects two members, ensuring regional equality in national decision-making. The Council works alongside the National Council, which represents the population more directly. Together, they debate and pass laws, approve budgets, and oversee the federal government. The Council of States plays a key role in balancing regional interests within Switzerland’s federal system, fostering cooperation between diverse cantons to shape national policy.