The Swiss Federal Council plans to bypass the mandatory popular majority requirement known as the Ständemehr for upcoming EU treaties, a strategic move admitted by Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis. According to the reporting, this decision stems from voting tactics aimed at increasing the chances of pushing the agreements through without securing approval from a majority of the cantons.
Strategic Voting Tactics and Ständerat Debate
The timing of the decision has drawn broad attention as the Ständerat prepares to debate the voting mode just one week from now. By avoiding the Ständemehr, the Federal Council reduces hurdles for the treaties.
Did You Know? Jean-Claude Juncker served as the president of the European Commission from November 1, 2014, to 2019, after decades of prominent political roles in Luxembourg, including serving as the country’s prime minister from 1995 to December 2013, according to biographical coverage from welt.de.
Former EU Chief Expresses Surprise
Former European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker has weighed in on the controversy. In an interview with the NZZ am Sonntag, the long-standing European politician expressed surprise over the Federal Council’s maneuver. “I always assumed that the Ständemehr was needed,” Juncker states in the interview, adding that he has long dealt with the matter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Federal Council bypassing the Ständemehr?
According to Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, the decision is driven by voting tactics to increase the likelihood of pushing the new EU treaties through without the cantonal majority requirement.
Who is Jean-Claude Juncker?
He is the former president of the European Commission and former prime minister of Luxembourg, widely known in European politics, who expressed surprise at the Federal Council’s strategy.
When is the next parliamentary debate scheduled?
The Ständerat is scheduled to debate the voting mode one week after the recent announcements.
How will this tactical bypass affect public and cantonal reception of the new EU treaties?
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