The Swiss model of federalism. Some lessons for the European Union Cover Image

The Swiss model of federalism. Some lessons for the European Union
The Swiss model of federalism. Some lessons for the European Union

Author(s): Agnieszka Anna Nitszke
Subject(s): Politics / Political Sciences
Published by: Uniwersytet Adama Mickiewicza
Keywords: federalism; Switzerland; European Union

Summary/Abstract: The federal principle in Switzerland has been developing for centuries. It was a process that has not always proceeded in a peaceful manner. The creation of Swiss statehood required reconciling different groups and interests. Today’s federal solutions in Switzerland allow for the peaceful co-existence of different language and religious groups. Another challenge is to reconcile the interests of wealthy and poor cantons. Understanding how this happened can provide guidance for further integration within the European Union, which in many aspects might be compared to Switzerland.

  • Issue Year: 2014
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 19-31
  • Page Count: 13