Swiss federal government

The Swiss federal government is the national authority responsible for overseeing country-wide issues like defense, foreign policy, and national laws. It consists of the Federal Council, a seven-member executive that makes decisions collectively, and the Federal Assembly, which is the legislative body composed of two chambers: the National Council and the Council of States. Switzerland's system emphasizes decentralization, allowing cantons (regions) significant autonomy. This structure ensures a balance between national unity and regional self-governance, fostering consensus through direct democracy mechanisms like referendums and initiatives to involve citizens in decision-making.